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HB 53

An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan program expenses of state government and for certain programs; capitalizing funds; amending appropriations; making supplemental appropriations; and providing for an effective date.

34th Legislature (2025-2026)

HB 53 allows the legislature to revive lapsed legal rights for child sexual abuse survivors, enabling them to seek justice even after the statute of limitations expires.

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Bill Summary · HB 53

Summary of HB 53: Child Sexual Abuse Constitutional Amendment

Bill Number: HB 53
Title: Child sexual abuse; Legislature authorized to revive lapsed rights or remedies, constitutional amendment
Status: Read for the first time and referred to the House Committee on Children and Senior Advocacy
Introduced: January 22, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Constitutional Amendments Statewide

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 53 is to amend the state constitution to empower the legislature to revive previously lapsed rights or remedies for victims of child sexual abuse. This legislative initiative aims to provide a pathway for survivors to seek justice and hold perpetrators accountable, even if the statute of limitations has expired.

Key Provisions

  • Revival of Lapsed Rights: The bill proposes that the legislature be granted the authority to reinstate legal rights or remedies that have lapsed due to the expiration of the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse cases.

  • Legislative Authority: This amendment would allow lawmakers to create specific provisions or frameworks under which survivors can pursue claims that would otherwise be barred by time limitations.

  • Constitutional Amendment Process: The bill outlines the procedural steps necessary for the amendment to be adopted, which may include a public vote or legislative approval.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse: The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be individuals who have experienced child sexual abuse and have been unable to seek legal recourse due to the expiration of the statute of limitations.

  • Perpetrators: Individuals accused of child sexual abuse may face renewed legal challenges if the legislature revives previously lapsed claims.

  • Legal and Advocacy Organizations: Organizations that support survivors of sexual abuse may see increased engagement and demand for services as more individuals seek to pursue claims.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Current Status: As of now, HB 53 has been read for the first time and is under consideration by the House Committee on Children and Senior Advocacy.

  • Next Steps: The bill will undergo review and discussion within the committee, where amendments may be proposed. Following committee approval, it may proceed to further readings and potential votes in the legislature.

  • Public Engagement: If the bill progresses, there may be opportunities for public input, particularly if a referendum is required for the constitutional amendment.

Conclusion

HB 53 represents a significant legislative effort to address the needs of survivors of child sexual abuse by potentially allowing them to revive their legal claims. By empowering the legislature to reinstate lapsed rights, this bill seeks to enhance access to justice for those affected by such traumatic experiences. The outcome of this bill could have lasting implications for survivors and the legal landscape surrounding child sexual abuse in the state.

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

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