A bill introduced by State Rep. Jake McCalmon, R-Franklin, would extend the statute of limitations for minor victims of child sexual abuse by 15 years.
House Bill 1906 would allow a minor victim of trafficking for a commercial sex act to sue up to 30 years after the victim turns 18 for injuries or illnesses that occurred as a result of the sexual abuse.
“These horrific events often traumatize victims for the rest of their lives,” McCalmon said. “Victims deserve accountability and the opportunity for justice. Tennessee Republicans are committed to ensuring those who viciously prey on the most vulnerable members of society are held responsible for their actions and severely punished.”
Victims of trafficking for a commercial sex act resulting in injury or illness are currently able to file civil action against an alleged perpetrator up to 15 years after their 18th birthday. The offense can include recruiting another person to provide a commercial sex act or knowingly subjecting or benefiting from another person’s provision of the abuse.
House Bill 1906 is set to be heard in the Civil Justice Subcommittee on Feb. 20.