Connecticut House Bill HB06555

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/11
• Refer: 3/7/11

Caption

An Act Concerning Civil Actions Against The State And Municipalities For The Sexual Assault Of Children.

Impact

The passage of HB 06555 is expected to significantly impact state liability laws by placing the state on equal footing with private individuals regarding legal accountability for acts of sexual abuse. This shift not only empowers victims with legal recourse but also prompts a reevaluation of how state entities handle allegations of sexual abuse and the mechanisms in place for protecting children. The legislation, effective from October 1, 2011, ensures that victims can recover for both physical injuries and emotional distress arising from incidents of sexual exploitation or assault.

Summary

House Bill 06555, an Act Concerning Civil Actions Against The State And Municipalities For The Sexual Assault Of Children, establishes a legal framework allowing victims of childhood sexual abuse to pursue civil lawsuits against the state, its political subdivisions, and associated personnel for damages resulting from such abuse. With this legislation, the defense of sovereign immunity, which often protects the state from being sued, is waived in these specific circumstances, thereby granting victims a direct pathway to seek justice and compensation in the Superior Court.

Contention

While the bill is largely perceived as a necessary step toward justice for victims of childhood sexual abuse, it may encounter contention regarding the implications for state resources and potential lawsuits. Opponents may argue that this could lead to an influx of civil suits against the state, burdening public resources and complicating the legal landscape for addressing claims of sexual abuse. Advocates, however, assert that this legislation serves a crucial role in acknowledging and rectifying the past injustices faced by victims, thereby promoting accountability at all levels of government.