State Senator Van Taylor has filed Senate Bill 701, which would remove the statute of limitations for felony indictments of sexual crimes against a child. Taylor has already filed Senate Bill 113, which would remove the statute of limitations for civil suits of such crimes.

“Crimes against children are vile and reprehensible,” Taylor said in a press release. “Because of the nature of the crimes and the young age of the victims, children of sexual abuse often do not come forward until after the statute of limitations have passed. In these circumstances, the perpetrator remains at-large and without penalty for some of society's most horrid crimes. My legislation would eliminate the statute of limitations for crimes involving the sexual abuse of a child, allowing victims the means to pursue their perpetrator whenever they are ready.” 

Senator Taylor's legislation would indefinitely extend the statute of limitations for felony indictments for employing, authorizing or inducting a child younger than 18 years of age to engage in sexual conduct or sexual performance. This extends the statute of limitations for felony indictments from its current authorization, which is 20 years following the 18th birthday of the victim.

"Senator Taylor’s proposed legislation would be a victory for child abuse victims in the state of Texas,” said Lynne McLean, CEO Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County. “Too often the dynamics of child sexual abuse make it difficult and sometimes impossible for children to feel safe enough tell someone about their trauma. By removing the statute of limitations, these bills support children who have experienced abuse and their right to come forth when they are ready and feel supported. We continue to be grateful for Senator Taylor’s unyielding support for child abuse victims in Collin County and the entire state of Texas."