Bill > HB151

This bill extends the time period for victims of childhood sexual abuse to file civil lawsuits for damages. Specifically, it changes the age by which a lawsuit must be filed from the person's twenty-fourth birthday to their fifty-eighth birthday, or three years from when they first disclose the abuse to a licensed medical or mental health provider. The bill clarifies that this extended deadline is the only statutory time or procedural limitation for such lawsuits, regardless of who the lawsuit is against. Furthermore, it retroactively revives any claims that would have been barred by the old deadline on or before July 1, 2026, allowing these individuals to file their lawsuits no later than June 30, 2029. "Childhood sexual abuse" is defined as conduct that would constitute certain criminal offenses against a minor, such as criminal sexual penetration or contact, or violations of the Sexual Exploitation of Children Act. This legislation aims to provide more time for survivors to seek justice for abuse that occurred when they were children.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=151&year=26