Connecticut House Bill HB06505

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/19
• Refer: 1/28/19

Caption

An Act Concerning The Statute Of Limitations On Sexual Assaults.

Impact

If enacted, HB 6505 would significantly alter how sexual assault cases are handled in Connecticut’s legal system. Extending or removing the statute of limitations will provide survivors with more time to report offenses and pursue prosecution, reflecting a growing recognition of the complexities surrounding sexual violence and trauma. This legislation could lead to a higher number of reported cases and subsequently impact the state’s judicial resources, as courts may see an influx of older cases being brought forward.

Summary

House Bill 6505 is proposed legislation aimed at extending or possibly eliminating the statute of limitations for the prosecution of sexual assaults in Connecticut. The bill seeks to align the state’s legal framework with that of many other states where the restrictions on prosecuting such offenses are more lenient. The intent behind this proposed change is to strengthen the rights of victims and improve access to justice for those who may have been unable to come forward immediately after the crime due to various personal or societal factors.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to empower survivors and ensure that those who commit sexual assault are held accountable, it may face opposition on grounds of fairness and the potential for difficulties in gathering evidence for cases that are years old. Critics may argue that extending the statute of limitations could lead to challenges in ensuring fair trials for defendants, as the passage of time can complicate the collection and verification of evidence. Thus, the discourse surrounding HB 6505 will likely involve a balance between victim advocacy and considerations of due process.