On February 13, Associate Policy Director Sarah Sample testified before the Judiciary Committee in support of HB 456 – Civil Actions – Child Nonsexual Abuse and Neglect – Damages and Statute of Limitations with amendments.
In brief, this bill attempts to address some of the grievous harms visited upon the victims of child abuse and neglect. If the bill becomes law, it will extend the statute of limitations on matters involving allegations of nonsexual abuse of a child. Counties support the intent of allowing victims to hold responsible parties accountable but request clarity regarding good faith actions taken by staff to protect children and maintain programming goals.
Counties believe measures should be taken to ensure that victims of child abuse and neglect can seek the justice their circumstances deserve. The bill expands the opportunity for victims to do so but also leaves counties in a difficult position to continue providing certain beneficial programs.
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