New York Assembly Bill A07984

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/16/25
• Refer: 4/16/25

Caption

Tolls the statute of limitations for endangering the welfare of a child until such child reaches the age of twenty-three.

Impact

If enacted, A07984 would significantly impact the legal landscape for prosecuting crimes against children in New York. By tolling the statute of limitations until a child turns twenty-three, the bill recognizes the unique challenges faced by victims of child endangerment, many of whom may not disclose their experiences until well into adulthood. This legislative change could lead to an increase in prosecutions of such offenses, thereby strengthening protections for children and enhancing accountability for perpetrators.

Summary

Assembly Bill A07984 aims to amend New York's criminal procedure law by extending the statute of limitations for offenses related to endangering the welfare of a child until the child reaches the age of twenty-three. The bill addresses serious issues concerning child welfare and the timing of when victims can seek justice for such crimes. This extension provides victims of child endangerment with a longer timeframe to report offenses, which is critical for cases that may take years for the repercussions to manifest or for victims to feel safe enough to come forward.

Contention

The introduction of A07984 may invite debate among lawmakers, particularly regarding the balance between securing justice for victims and the rights of the accused. Critics may raise concerns about the implications of extending deadlines for prosecution, arguing it could complicate legal proceedings or lead to difficulties in obtaining evidence over time. Supporters, however, would counter that this change is a necessary step to ensure that victims have a fair opportunity to seek justice, particularly given the profound impact of childhood trauma on their lives.