Relating to elimination of limitations periods for suits for personal injury arising from certain offenses against a child or disabled individual.
If enacted, SB2905 would amend the existing law, which typically requires that personal injury lawsuits must be filed within a certain time frame, usually two years. By removing these limitations for severe offenses against vulnerable populations, the bill is intended to provide a pathway for survivors who may not come forward until much later in life, whether due to trauma, fear, or societal stigma. This broadening of access to the judicial system could lead to increased accountability for perpetrators and potentially foster a supportive environment for victims to come forward.
Senate Bill 2905 proposes a significant change to the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code by eliminating the statute of limitations for civil suits related to personal injury claims that arise from specific offenses against children and disabled individuals. The bill aims to empower victims by allowing them to seek legal recourse at any time, regardless of when the injury occurred. This legislative change is particularly focused on addressing serious offenses such as sexual abuse, trafficking, and other criminal acts which often go unpunished due to the constraints of current statutes.
However, the bill is not without controversy. Critics may argue that removing the statute of limitations entirely could lead to an influx of claims that lack sufficient evidence, especially for events that transpired many years earlier. Concerns have also been raised about the implications for defendants, including the potential for unjust accusations that may arise from the inability to adequately defend against old claims. Supporters, conversely, emphasize the necessity of such measures to ensure that no victim is denied justice based on an arbitrary timeline.
Civil Practice And Remedies Code