This bill aims to extend the time period for individuals to commence civil actions based on childhood sexual abuse. It amends Section 37-1-30 NMSA 1978 to change the age limit for filing such actions from twenty-four to fifty-eight years old. Additionally, it retroactively revives actions that were barred before July 1, 2026, allowing them to be filed until June 30, 2029, provided they are only against individuals. The bill also clarifies that Section 37-1-30 is the sole statutory limitation for these actions, eliminating the applicability of other statutes of limitation.

Furthermore, the bill establishes the "Survivors' Justice and Compensation Fund" and the "Survivors' Justice and Compensation Commission." The fund will provide compensation to individuals who suffered childhood sexual abuse due to the actions of public employees or negligence of public bodies, with a maximum compensation of $700,000. The commission will oversee the claims process, conduct hearings, and determine compensation based on various factors related to the abuse. The bill appropriates $25 million from the general fund to support the fund and mandates annual reporting to the governor and legislature on claims and expenditures. The provisions of this act will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 37-1-30
JC substitute: 37-1-30