New Bill Aimed at Child Sex Abuse Cases in Ga

By Shameca Kelley
WSAV
February 28, 2014

http://www.wsav.com/story/24847696/new-bill

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.