This bill amends Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically addressing the limitations of time for civil actions related to infancy, insanity, or imprisonment, and making significant changes to the exceptions to sovereign and governmental immunity concerning sexual abuse claims. Notably, it introduces a new subsection (c) that allows individuals under 18 years of age at the time of the cause of action to revive their civil claims for sexual abuse, even if the statute of limitations has expired, granting them an additional two years to file. The bill also clarifies definitions related to "forcible compulsion," "minor," and "sexual abuse," ensuring that the terms are consistent and comprehensive.

Additionally, the bill amends existing provisions regarding sovereign and governmental immunity, specifically stating that claims for damages resulting from sexual abuse can proceed against Commonwealth parties and local agencies if negligence is established. These amendments apply retroactively to causes of action that arose before the effective date of the bill, thereby allowing previously barred claims to be revived. The act emphasizes the nonseverability of its provisions, meaning that if any part is deemed invalid, the entire act would be void. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 445 (Feb 04, 2025): 42-5533(b), P.L.641, No.87
Printer's No. 0445: 42-5533(b), P.L.641, No.87