New Bill Aimed at Child Sex Abuse Cases in GA

New Bill Aimed at Child Sex Abuse Cases in GA

Posted: Feb 28, 2014 12:50 AM ESTUpdated: Feb 28, 2014 1:13 AM EST

By Shameca Kelley – email

Child sexual abuse impacts 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys before their 18th birthday. Yet, prosecutors say only 1 in 10 actually speak up, but in many cases, not until they are older and well past the statute of limitations for legal action against their abusers.

However, a House Judiciary Committee has passed a new bill, HB 771, which would give victims more time to seek action.

Under current law, child sex abuse victims in the Peach State can only take action against their abusers up to five years after age 18.

If the new bill passes, victims would be able to bring action against his or her abuser up until they reach the age of 30.

“Once a child has been sexually abused they are given a life sentence. The question then becomes how does a victim get justice in a civil action before the statute runs out? This bill can bring necessary reform for victims to obtain justice in a civil action,” said Rep. Jason Spencer of Woodbine.

Now that the bill has made its way through the house committee process, it has the potential to be called for a floor vote by the full House.