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HB 6049

Civil procedure: statute of limitations; civil actions for criminal sexual conduct; modify period of limitations. Amends sec. 5805 of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.5805).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joey Andrews and 21 co-sponsors

HB 6049 would change the civil statute of limitations for cases involving criminal sexual conduct, expanding when survivors may file civil actions.

bill electronically reproduced 06/04/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 6049

Overview

HB 6049 (2025-2026, Michigan) seeks to modify the statute of limitations for civil actions arising from criminal sexual conduct. It amends section 5805 of 1961 PA 236 (Michigan Compiled Laws, MCL 600.5805). The bill is currently in the Judiciary Committee after being introduced by Rep. Noah Arbit on June 4, 2026. A broad group of co-sponsors from both chambers are listed.

Purpose and Intent

  • The primary aim is to adjust the period during which a victim can file a civil action related to criminal sexual conduct.
  • The bill intends to broaden or otherwise modify the time limits governing civil lawsuits in these cases, influencing when survivors may pursue legal recourse.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Amends MCL 600.5805, the statute of limitations governing civil actions for criminal sexual conduct.
  • While the exact text of the amendment is not provided here, changes typically fall into one of these categories:
    • Extending the limitations period for civil actions.
    • Introducing special provisions for victims (e.g., discovery rules, tolling, or exceptions for minors).
    • Clarifying when the limitations period starts (verdict date, discovery of harm, or other triggers).
  • The bill would be applied to civil proceedings rather than criminal prosecutions, focusing on civil liability for conduct that constitutes criminal sexual acts.

Who Is Affected

  • Victims of criminal sexual conduct who pursue civil actions for damages or remedies.
  • Defendants in civil actions arising from criminal sexual conduct (e.g., individuals accused or convicted of such conduct, organizations or institutions where the conduct occurred, and possibly their insurers or attorneys).
  • Civil courts in Michigan handling tort or civil rights-related claims tied to sexual misconduct.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • Status: Introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee (as of June 2026).
  • The timeline for passage would follow standard Michigan process: committee review, potential amendments, floor votes in the House and Senate, and gubernatorial action.
  • If enacted, the changes would apply to civil actions filed under the amended statute; there may be transitional provisions to apply to claims arising after or before the effective date, depending on the bill’s final language (not provided here).

Potential Impacts

  • Expanded ability for survivors to file civil suits for longer periods after the underlying conduct.
  • Potential increases in civil filings related to criminal sexual conduct and related liability claims.
  • Implications for defendants, including potential changes to risk exposure, settlements, and insurance defense strategies.
  • Possible impact on institutions and organizations by altering timelines for claims involving employees, actors, or affiliates.

Summary

HB 6049 addresses civil liability time limits for cases involving criminal sexual conduct by amending MCL 600.5805. It is designed to adjust when civil actions can be brought, with the goal of enhancing survivors’ access to justice. The bill is in early legislative stages, with a focus on procedural reform rather than substantive changes to criminal law.

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

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