Connecticut House Bill HB06524

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/23
• Refer: 1/24/23

Caption

An Act Eliminating The Statute Of Limitation In Civil Actions Alleging Sexual Abuse, Sexual Exploitation Or Sexual Assault.

Impact

The proposed bill will amend section 52-577d of the general statutes, thus having far-reaching implications on how sexual abuse cases are handled in the state. By allowing victims to file civil actions without the constraint of time, it could potentially lead to an increase in the number of cases brought forward, thereby holding offenders accountable even after significant delays. Additionally, this change could influence other legal processes and the way courts handle these sensitive cases, making them more accessible to survivors seeking redress for their experiences.

Summary

House Bill 06524 aims to eliminate the statute of limitations for civil actions regarding sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or sexual assault. By removing time limits for bringing these claims, the bill seeks to provide victims the opportunity to pursue justice regardless of when the abuse occurred. This legislative move is significant as it acknowledges the complex emotional and psychological factors often involved in such cases, where many victims may take years or even decades to come forward due to trauma, fear, or societal pressures.

Contention

Although the bill is positioned as a necessary reform to support victims of sexual violence, it may generate contention among various stakeholders. Supporters argue that this measure provides long-overdue justice for victims who might otherwise be barred from seeking legal recourse due to the existing time limitations. In contrast, critics could argue about the implications for defendants, including the potential for unfair trials arising from events that occurred many years prior. This concern pertains to the availability of evidence and the reliability of recollections over time, which could complicate legal proceedings.