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AB 250

Sexual assault: statute of limitations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cecilia Aguiar-Curry

California extends the statute of limitations for sexual assault prosecutions, allowing more cases to proceed years or decades after alleged crimes occur.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 682, Statutes of 2025.
#sexualassault #statuteoflimitations
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Bill Summary · AB 250

Legislative bill overview

AB 250 modifies California's statute of limitations for sexual assault prosecutions, extending the time period within which charges can be filed. The bill was signed into law in October 2025 after passing both chambers of the legislature with strong support.

Why is this important

Statutes of limitations determine how long after a crime is committed that prosecutors can bring charges. Extending this window for sexual assault cases can enable prosecution of offenders who might otherwise escape accountability due to delayed reporting, which is common in sexual assault cases due to trauma, fear, and social barriers. However, longer limitations periods also raise questions about the reliability of evidence and witness testimony over time.

Potential points of contention

  • Defendant fairness concerns: Extending time limits may disadvantage defendants whose memories have faded, witnesses have disappeared, or evidence has degraded, making it harder to mount an effective defense
  • Delayed justice trade-offs: While longer periods help survivors seek justice, they also mean offenders face prolonged legal uncertainty and investigations may rely on weaker evidence
  • Scope specificity: The bill's exact parameters (which sexual assault crimes covered, new time limits, any exceptions) significantly affect its real-world application and fairness implications

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

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