Sen. Baldacci bill to remove statute of limitations on charging sexual abuse of minors becomes law

AUGUSTA — On Tuesday, July 25, the Senate enacted and funded 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,” will remove the statute of limitations when pursuing criminal or civil actions of the crime of sexual abuse of a minor. The bill was then signed by Gov. Janet Mills on July 27.

“Shining a light and bringing justice to victims of sexual abuse is essential both for the victims and for all of us wanting our children protected,” said Sen. Baldacci. “This is an important piece of legislation that shows that Maine stands with survivors, and I am confident the Governor will support it as well. We have already seen lots of support, and we no doubt will see more moving forward.”

LD 1790 will 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.

The law will go into effect 90 days after the date Legislature adjourned sine die.