Texas Legislature approves bill to remove statute of limitations for child sexual abuse suits

A new legislative bill, HB2022, introduced by Texas Representative Meyer on January 22, 2025, aims to eliminate the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits arising from specific offenses against children and disabled individuals. This significant proposal seeks to address the challenges faced by survivors of sexual abuse and trafficking, allowing them to seek justice regardless of when the abuse occurred.

Key provisions of HB2022 include the removal of time limits for filing lawsuits related to offenses such as sexual assault of a child, aggravated sexual assault, and continuous sexual abuse. The bill also retroactively applies to cases of child sexual abuse that occurred before its effective date, September 1, 2025. This retroactive application is particularly notable, as it allows survivors who may have previously felt barred from seeking justice due to expired limitations to come forward.

The bill has sparked considerable debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that removing the statute of limitations is essential for empowering survivors and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable, regardless of when the abuse occurred. They emphasize that many victims take years to come forward due to trauma, fear, or societal stigma.

Opponents, however, raise concerns about the potential for false claims and the implications for defendants who may struggle to defend against allegations from decades past. They argue that a lack of time limits could lead to difficulties in gathering evidence and witness testimony, which may undermine the fairness of trials.

The implications of HB2022 extend beyond the courtroom. By facilitating access to justice for survivors, the bill could foster a broader societal conversation about the importance of addressing child abuse and supporting victims. Experts suggest that this legislative change may encourage more individuals to come forward, potentially leading to increased awareness and prevention efforts.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its fate remains uncertain. If passed, HB2022 could mark a significant shift in Texas law, reflecting a growing recognition of the need to support survivors of abuse and hold offenders accountable, regardless of the passage of time.