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Minnesota House Passes Child Victims Act

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

ST. PAUL, MN – Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed a bill authored by Rep. Steve Simon (DFL—Hopkins) by a vote of 115-7 that gives victims of sexual abuse a meaningful and long-term ability to seek justice against their abusers.

“This is a great day for justice for survivors of sexual abuse,” said Rep. Simon. “Today’s vote signaled a strong bipartisan appetite for much-needed change in our current law, which is one of the worst in the country.”

Current state statute provides that any action for damages based on personal injury caused by sexual abuse must be commenced within six years from the time the plaintiff knew or had reason to know that the injury was caused by sexual abuse, but the Minnesota Supreme Court interprets the statute of limitations to close by the age of 24.

The Child Victims Act (HF 681) removes the statute of limitations in the case of alleged sexual abuse of a child that may occur in the future. Action for damages would apply against a person, corporation, organization or other entity that is the cause of the plaintiff’s damages.

The bill also provides a three-year window from the time of the effective date of the bill (August 1, 2013) for individuals to bring forward current time-barred claims. In all instances, institutions would only be liable if they are at fault.

“At the end of the day, our primary focus needs to be on providing meaningful relief and the opportunity for victims of sexual abuse to seek justice,” added Rep. Simon.

The Child Victims Act is supported by the National Centers for Victims of Crime, Minnesota Coalition Against Sexual Assault, Minnesota Alliance on Crime, and a host of other coalitions and organizations that have been working for years to address barriers to sexual abuse victims seeking damages.

The Senate companion bill (SF 534) authored by Senator Ron Latz (DFL—St. Louis Park) awaits a floor vote before differences can be ironed out in a conference committee.