Statute of limitations law moving forward in Harrisburg

By Erika Stanish
WJAC
June 09, 2016

http://wjactv.com/news/local/statute-of-limitations-law-moving-forward-in-harrisburg

HOLLIDAYSBURG - The Diocese of Harrisburg sent out a letter warning its parishioners of financial hardship to the church if the statute of limitations changes.

The new law would allow for a victim of child abuse not over 50 to seek criminal investigations in their case and allow them to file civil lawsuits.

The letter was sent to Harrisburg's Catholic School Community, openly opposing some of the proposed law to eliminate the statute of limitations.

The letter goes on to say more lawsuits could flood their diocese and force the closing of parishes, schools and ministries.

Tony DeGol, secretary of communications for the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, told 6 News if the law passes, the Catholic Church would be in the position to address cases up to 50 years old.

"Of course, that's very difficult to do in legal standpoint in some cases, the defendant may no longer be living, so he's not alive to defend himself, potential witnesses, their memories have faded, its very difficult to address those cases," DeGol said. "I think that's a whole constitutional question that lawmakers are going to have to look at."

The local diocese was aware that others around the state are looking for ways to inform their parishioners.

"The bishop is considering what action he's going to take. I know many other bishops have been very proactive to make sure faithful are aware," DeGol said. "Right now, the bishop has been focused on looking at the important changes he wants to make in wake of attorney general's report.

"He's focused on reorganizing allegation review board, committed to complete review of child protection policy. But he is aware of this legislation, aware of what other bishops are doing and he is certainly considering his options. very fair to say bishop is concerned by this legislation," DeGol said.

The church is not opposed to all of the limitation changes.

"The Catholic Church is certainly not opposed to eliminating a statute of limitations when it comes to criminal aspect of it. Certainly anyone who has been convicted of molesting a child should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. For the Catholic Church is not opposed to changing that statute. It's the civil statute/ retroactive statute that concerns us," DeGol said.

DeGol told 6 News he does agree with the warning the Harrisburg letter addressed when it comes to the finances of the church.

"I think all Catholics need to be aware of that. If this legislation passes, and the Catholic Church is facing multiple lawsuits the consequences are severe for all Catholics. We may be in position to sell properties including parishes and schools," DeGol said.

House Bill 1947 will be taken up next week in Harrisburg.