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SB 1070

Statutes of Limitations and Repose - As enacted, extends the statute of limitations for criminal prosecution of certain child sexual abuse felonies from 25 years from the child's eighteenth birthday to 30 years from the child's eighteenth birthday; extends the statute of limitations for a civil action based on child sexual abuse from 15 years from the child's eighteenth birthday to 30 years from the child's eighteenth birthday. - Amends TCA Title 28 and Title 40, Chapter 2.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee extends deadlines for prosecuting and suing for child sexual abuse from 25/15 years to 30 years after victim turns 18, giving survivors more time to seek justice.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 291
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Bill Summary · SB 1070

Legislative bill overview

SB 1070 extends Tennessee's statute of limitations for prosecuting child sexual abuse crimes from 25 years to 30 years after the victim turns 18, and extends civil lawsuits for such abuse from 15 years to 30 years after the victim turns 18. This aligns both criminal and civil timeframes and provides additional time for victims to seek justice through either prosecution or litigation.

Why is this important

Child sexual abuse often goes unreported for years or decades due to trauma, shame, and psychological barriers to disclosure. Extending these deadlines recognizes that survivors frequently need extended time before coming forward and ensures the legal system remains accessible to victims who were previously barred by expiring claims. This also allows law enforcement more time to investigate older cases where evidence or witnesses may eventually emerge.

Potential points of contention

  • Defendants' rights concerns: Defense advocates may argue that extending prosecution windows makes it harder to mount effective defenses after 25+ years, when witnesses may be unavailable or memories fade, creating fairness questions despite the serious nature of the crimes
  • Resource allocation: Law enforcement and courts may face increased caseloads reopening or prosecuting decades-old allegations, potentially straining budgets and creating delays in other criminal matters
  • Civil liability exposure: Businesses and organizations could face extended liability periods for institutional failures to prevent abuse, raising questions about insurance costs and organizational sustainability versus victim compensation needs

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

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