This bill amends Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically Section 5551, which pertains to the limitation of time for prosecuting certain offenses. The amendment establishes that there is no time limit for prosecuting a range of serious crimes, including murder, voluntary manslaughter, and various sexual offenses against minors and nonverbal care-dependent individuals. The bill explicitly lists offenses that can be prosecuted at any time, including conspiracy to commit murder, aggravated assault against law enforcement officers, and several sexual offenses if the victim is under 18 or a nonverbal care-dependent person.

Additionally, the bill introduces a definition for "nonverbal care-dependent person," clarifying that it refers to individuals aged 18 or older who require assistance due to physical or cognitive disabilities. The new legal language inserted into the statute expands the scope of offenses that can be prosecuted without a time limit, thereby enhancing legal protections for vulnerable populations. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 838 (Mar 05, 2025): 42-5551
Printer's No. 0838: 42-5551