The bill, S.B. No. 2079, amends the Civil Practice and Remedies Code to establish new provisions regarding personal injury actions arising from sexual offenses against children or disabled individuals when brought against non-perpetrators. It modifies the statute of limitations for such claims, extending the time frame from 30 years to 35 years for filing a lawsuit after the cause of action accrues. Additionally, the bill introduces Chapter 81B, which outlines specific definitions and requirements for businesses or organizations operating a "safe environment program," including conducting background checks and mandatory educational programs for employees.

Under the new chapter, actions for damages must be proven by clear and convincing evidence, and the liability of defendants is capped at $250,000 for each occurrence and $1 million per claimant. The bill also waives certain sovereign immunity protections for defendants, allowing for legal action within the specified limits. However, it clarifies that the chapter does not create new causes of action related to safe environment programs. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to causes of action that accrue on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 16.0045, Title , Civil Practice and Remedies Code 21.11 (Title , Civil Practice and Remedies Code 21, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 16)