The bill amends Section 9-1-14 of the General Laws in Chapter 9-1, which pertains to the limitation of actions for words spoken and personal injuries. It establishes that actions for words spoken must be initiated within one year, while actions for personal injuries must be commenced within three years, with specific exceptions for claims related to sexual abuse or exploitation of a child, which are governed by § 9-1-51. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that extend the statute of limitations for claims based on first-degree child abuse, allowing such actions to be filed within thirty-five years of the incident, as outlined in the newly added Section 9-1-55, referred to as "Harter's Law."

Under Harter's Law, the time limit for filing a civil action for injuries resulting from first-degree child abuse is extended to thirty-five years, with the provision that the statute of limitations is tolled until the child reaches eighteen years of age. This amendment aims to provide greater protection and recourse for victims of child abuse by allowing them more time to seek legal action. The bill will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5177: 9-1-14