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SB 1167

Relating to elimination of limitations periods for suits for personal injury arising from certain offenses against a child or disabled individual.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Angela Paxton

Texas bill eliminates civil statute of limitations for personal injury suits stemming from offenses against children and disabled individuals, allowing suits anytime in the future.

Referred to State Affairs
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #crimes--againstpersons--sexual(i0171) #disabilities #personswith(i0380) #minors--crimesagainst(i0532) #statutesoflimitations(s0065)
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Bill Summary · SB 1167

Legislative bill overview

SB 1167 would eliminate the statute of limitations for civil lawsuits involving personal injury claims arising from certain offenses against children or disabled individuals in Texas. This means victims could file civil suits at any point in the future, rather than within a previously defined timeframe. The bill is currently in early stages, having been referred to the State Affairs Committee.

Why is this important

Statutes of limitations have traditionally balanced victim access to justice with defendants' need for legal finality. Removing these time restrictions could significantly increase civil litigation exposure for individuals and institutions (schools, religious organizations, care facilities) decades after alleged incidents. This affects both victims seeking delayed justice and defendants facing unpredictable, indefinite liability.

Potential points of contention

  • Evidence degradation: Defendants' ability to mount effective defenses deteriorates over time as witnesses become unavailable, memories fade, and evidence is lost, potentially creating unfair litigation outcomes
  • Institutional liability: Organizations serving children or vulnerable populations could face substantial retroactive claims, potentially affecting their financial viability and insurance costs
  • Fairness concerns: Some argue unlimited timeframes disproportionately burden defendants who cannot defend themselves against aged allegations, while others contend justice delayed should not mean justice denied for severe crimes

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

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