House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

NEW!

Subscribe to receive notifications of new Co-Sponsorship Memos circulated

By Member | By Date | Keyword Search

House of Representatives
Session of 2013 - 2014 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	March 21, 2013 12:21 PM
From:	Representative Mark Rozzi
To:	All House members
Subject:	Increasing the Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse (Civil Actions) and “Opening the Window” for Past Child Sex Abuse Victims

In the near future, I will be introducing legislation that would amend Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to increase the statute of limitations from 12 years to 32 years for civil actions arising from the sexual abuse of a minor. In addition, the legislation would create a two year “window” which would suspend the civil statute of limitations to allow past child sexual abuse victims the opportunity to seek civil recourse from their perpetrators. Under current law, civil action for most sex crimes must commence within 12 years of when the victim reaches 18 years of age. Sadly, many victims are unable or unwilling to bring civil suits against the perpetrators in the years immediately following the horrific acts due to various emotional issues surrounding the ordeal. The current law places victims of sexual abuse at an unfair disadvantage once their “window” closes for civil recourse. My proposal aims to ensure that former and future perpetrators of these heinous acts are brought to justice in civil court. It is important to note that my legislation will not remove the sovereign immunity defense for public officials and institutions. I urge you to join me and co-sponsor this important piece of legislation.

---