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Bill Summary · HJR 130

Legislative bill overview

HJR 130 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that would allow Missouri to enact retrospective (retroactive) laws specifically for civil claims related to childhood sexual abuse. Currently, Missouri's constitution generally prohibits ex post facto laws and retroactive civil legislation. This amendment would create a carve-out enabling victims to pursue civil lawsuits for abuse that occurred years or decades ago, even if statutes of limitations had previously expired.

Why is this important

Childhood sexual abuse survivors often delay reporting due to trauma, shame, or psychological barriers—sometimes waiting years or decades before coming forward. This amendment would remove legal barriers preventing older claims from being heard in court, potentially allowing survivors to seek damages from perpetrators and institutions that enabled abuse. Several states have already implemented similar "lookback windows" that have resulted in significant civil litigation and institutional accountability.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: Retroactive laws traditionally conflict with due process protections; critics argue this creates unfair exposure for defendants facing decades-old allegations with limited evidence or witness availability
  • Institutional liability: Religious organizations, schools, and other entities could face substantial financial exposure from historical abuse claims, raising questions about proportionality and institutional survival
  • Evidentiary challenges: Very old claims may lack corroborating evidence, potentially leading to outcomes based on limited factual records and creating credibility assessment difficulties for courts

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

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