Summary of S. 3815 - "Virginia's Law"

Overview

S. 3815, also known as "Virginia's Law", is a bill introduced in the U.S. Senate on February 10, 2026. The main purpose of the bill is to:

1. Create a new civil cause of action for victims of certain federal sex crimes, allowing them to sue perpetrators for damages.
2. Eliminate the statute of limitations for civil actions related to certain human trafficking and forced labor crimes.

Key Provisions

The bill would make the following key changes:

Civil Remedies

• Adds a new section (2249) to Chapter 109A of Title 18 to allow victims of federal sex crimes like sexual abuse to bring civil lawsuits against perpetrators.
• Adds a new section (2430) to Chapter 117 to allow victims of federal sex trafficking and related crimes to bring civil lawsuits.
• In both cases, victims can recover damages and attorneys' fees.
• Civil lawsuits would be stayed during the pendency of any related criminal proceedings.
• Establishes a 10-year statute of limitations, except for the most serious offenses (sexual abuse, sex trafficking) which would have no time limit.

Elimination of Statute of Limitations

• Amends Section 1595 of Title 18 to eliminate the statute of limitations for civil actions related to forced labor, trafficking, and sex trafficking crimes.

Potential Impact

• Provides new civil remedies and recourse for victims of federal sex crimes and human trafficking, potentially leading to more lawsuits and financial recoveries.
• Removes barriers to civil claims for the most serious offenses by eliminating statutes of limitations.
• May incentivize more victims to come forward and seek justice through both criminal and civil avenues.
• Could have implications for statute of limitations in other areas of federal criminal law if this approach is expanded.

Overall, S. 3815 aims to empower victims and expand legal options for seeking accountability and compensation related to egregious federal sex crimes and human trafficking offenses.