Alabama House Bill HB612

Alabama 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/24/25
• Refer: 4/24/25

Caption

Child sexual abuse; Legislature authorized to revive lapsed rights or remedies, constitutional amendment

Impact

If enacted, the amendment would amend Section 95 of the Alabama Constitution, which currently prohibits the legislature from reviving any right or remedy that has lapsed. By allowing for the revival of rights pertaining specifically to child sexual abuse, the bill aims to provide a remedy for those affected by such crimes and confront issues related to the historical underreporting and lack of prosecution in these cases. This legislative change is expected to encourage survivors to come forward and pursue justice without the fear of being hindered by expired claims.

Summary

House Bill 612 proposes a significant amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 2022, specifically aimed at addressing the legal rights related to child sexual abuse. The bill seeks to authorize the legislature to revive any rights or remedies that may have been previously barred by the passage of time, making it easier for survivors of child sexual abuse to pursue legal action. This change could have a substantial impact on past cases that victims may have felt were no longer viable due to expired statutes of limitations, providing a legal pathway for seeking justice and accountability.

Contention

The proposed amendment could spur discussions around the issues of accountability and reform within the justice system, particularly concerning child protection laws. Some legislators may express concerns about potential implications on statute of limitations and the legal landscape for other civil claims. While the bill is primarily focused on child sexual abuse, it raises broader questions about how legislative bodies balance the need for justice with the principles of finality and fairness within the legal system.