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SD 1584

An Act enhancing remedies for survivors of childhood sexual abuse

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Will Brownsberger and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill expands civil remedies for childhood sexual abuse survivors by extending statutes of limitations, enabling delayed claims against abusers and negligent institutions.

House concurred
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Bill Summary · SD 1584

Legislative bill overview

SD 1584 expands legal remedies available to survivors of childhood sexual abuse in Massachusetts. The bill modifies statutes of limitations and liability provisions to enable survivors to pursue civil claims and hold institutions accountable for abuse that occurred years or decades earlier.

Why is this important

Many childhood sexual abuse survivors delay reporting due to trauma, shame, and psychological barriers—often not coming forward until adulthood. Current statutes of limitations can bar valid claims before survivors are ready to pursue them. This bill removes barriers to justice and provides survivors a meaningful opportunity to seek compensation and hold abusers and negligent institutions accountable.

Potential points of contention

  • Retroactive liability concerns: Extending remedies to historical abuse may expose institutions (schools, organizations, churches) to litigation for decades-old incidents, raising questions about fair notice and the ability to defend against old claims where witnesses and evidence may be unavailable
  • Insurance and institutional costs: Institutions may face significant financial exposure through increased litigation, potentially affecting their operations, insurance premiums, and ability to serve communities
  • Statute of repose debates: Questions about balancing survivor rights against the practical need for closure and finality in legal matters, and whether indefinite liability windows are sustainable for organizations

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

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