Senate gives initial approval to Sen. Baldacci bill to remove statute of limitations on charging sexual abuse of minors

AUGUSTA — On Friday, the Senate 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.

“Standing with victims and ensuring that they have access to justice is the main focus of this bill,” said Sen. Baldacci. “This is an important piece of legislation that shows that Maine stands with survivors, and I look forward to seeing this bill make its way through the remainder of the legislative process. We have already seen lots of support, and we no doubt will see more moving forward.”

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.

The bill awaits further votes in the Senate and House.