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SF 364

A bill for an act modifying the periods of time to bring certain civil actions by victims of sexual abuse and other sexual offenses that occurred when the victim was a minor, entitling certain cases to a preference in trial order, and including effective date provisions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sandy Salmon and 1 co-sponsor

SF 364 extends the time for childhood sexual abuse victims to file civil claims to 10 years and revives previously barred claims, enhancing access to justice.

Subcommittee recommends passage.
#civilprocedure #criminallaw #minors #sexualabuse #sexualexploitation #statuteoflimitations #supremecourtofiowa #trials #victims
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Bill Summary · SF 364

Summary of SF 364: Modifications to Civil Actions for Victims of Sexual Abuse

Bill Number: SF 364
Introduced On: February 18, 2025
Current Status: Subcommittee recommends passage
Subject Areas: Civil Procedure, Criminal Law, Minors, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Exploitation, Statute of Limitations, Trials, Victims

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SF 364 is to modify the statute of limitations for civil actions related to sexual abuse and other sexual offenses that occurred when the victim was a minor. This bill aims to provide victims with a more extended period to seek justice and hold perpetrators accountable, recognizing the complexities involved in disclosing such traumatic experiences.

Key Provisions

  1. Extended Timeframe for Filing Claims:

    • Victims of sexual abuse or other sexual offenses that occurred during their childhood will have ten years from the date they discover both the injury and its causal relationship to the abuse to file a civil action.
    • Alternatively, victims can file within ten years from their attainment of majority (age 18), whichever is later.

  2. Revival of Previously Barred Claims:

    • The bill allows for the revival of any claims that were previously barred due to the expiration of the statute of limitations. Victims whose claims were time-barred can commence action within three years from the effective date of this Act.

  3. Preference in Trial Order:

    • Certain cases related to sexual offenses against minors will be entitled to a preference in trial order, ensuring that these cases are heard more promptly in the judicial system.

Affected Parties

  • Victims: The bill directly benefits individuals who were victims of sexual abuse or offenses as minors, allowing them additional time to seek legal recourse.
  • Legal System: Courts may experience an increase in cases filed under this new provision, particularly from individuals who previously could not pursue claims due to expired limitations.
  • Perpetrators and Institutions: Individuals or entities accused of sexual offenses may face renewed legal challenges as previously barred claims can now be revived.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee on February 18, 2025.
  • A subcommittee meeting was held on February 26, 2025, where the bill was recommended for passage.
  • The effective date of the provisions will be specified upon final passage of the bill.

Conclusion

SF 364 represents a significant legislative effort to support victims of childhood sexual abuse by extending the time they have to file civil actions and reviving previously barred claims. By prioritizing these cases in the judicial system, the bill aims to enhance access to justice for survivors and hold offenders accountable for their actions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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