Relating to the statute of limitations in a civil suit for certain sexual assaults.
Impact
If enacted, SB1931 would fundamentally alter the landscape of civil liability for sexual assault cases in Texas. By extending the period within which victims can file lawsuits, particularly in cases of child sexual abuse, the bill aims to empower survivors who may feel unable to come forward until many years after an incident. The bill intends to alleviate some of the existing barriers that deter victims from seeking justice, such as the pressure of impending deadlines under the previous law.
Summary
SB1931 seeks to amend the Civil Practice and Remedies Code regarding the statute of limitations for civil suits arising from certain sexual assaults. The bill specifically allows individuals to bring personal injury lawsuits at any time in cases involving sexual assault of a child and several other serious offenses. For other types of sexual assault claims, the proposed amendment establishes a ten-year limit from the date of the incident. This change represents a significant shift in how victims may seek legal redress for crimes against them, particularly in the context of child sexual abuse.
Contention
Discussion surrounding SB1931 may have elements of contention, particularly among proponents and opponents of modifying the statute of limitations for sexual assault cases. Advocates for the bill argue that the changes are imperative for ensuring that survivors have ample time to process their trauma and seek justice. Conversely, some critics may question the implications of extending the time limit, arguing that it could lead to challenges in gathering evidence or the reliability of witness testimonies in older cases.
Relating to certain suits for personal injury that arise as a result of conduct that violates certain Penal Code provisions concerning sexual offenses against a child but that are filed against certain persons who did not commit the conduct that violated those Penal Code provisions.
Relating to certain suits for personal injury that arise as a result of conduct that violates certain Penal Code provisions concerning sexual offenses against a child but that are filed against certain persons who did not commit the conduct that violated those Penal Code provisions.
Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.