House Bill No. 67, introduced by Representative Horton, aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding sex offenses committed against minors in Louisiana. The bill amends existing laws to include a new provision under R.S. 14:42.1(A)(3), which classifies second degree rape as occurring when the victim is between the ages of 13 and 17, and the offender is at least 17 years old, thereby expanding the definition of this crime. Additionally, the bill modifies the time limitations for prosecuting sex offenses involving victims under 18, establishing a 30-year period for prosecution that begins when the victim turns 18. This change broadens the scope of offenses that fall under this time frame to include any sex offense as defined in R.S. 15:541(24).

Furthermore, the bill updates the hearsay exception in Code of Evidence Article 804(B)(5) by raising the age threshold for statements made by minors regarding sexually assaultive behavior from 12 to 13 years. This adjustment aims to ensure that the testimonies of slightly older minors are also considered trustworthy in legal proceedings. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen protections for minors against sexual offenses and improve the legal processes related to such crimes.