Committee unanimously supports Sen. Baldacci bill to remove statute of limitations on charging sexual abuse of minors

AUGUSTA — On Tuesday, May 23, the Legislature’s Committee on Judiciary voted unanimously in favor of a bill sponsored by Sen. Joe Baldacci, D-Bangor. LD 1790, “An Act Removing the Statute of Limitations on Criminal and Civil Actions Involving Sexual Abuse of Minors,” would remove the statute of limitations when pursuing criminal or civil actions of the crime of sexual abuse of a minor.

“I am thrilled for the support from both sides of the political aisle,” said Sen. Baldacci. “It is important that we stand with victims and ensure they have access to the justice they deserve. Having the road be open for when and if they are ready is an important step, and to see unanimous support for this bill shows just how important this legislation is.”

LD 1790 would allow civil or criminal charges to be pursued at any time by victims of sexual abuse if they were under the age of 18 when the crime was committed.

LD 1790 now faces votes in the Senate and House.