Modifies provisions relating to civil actions for childhood sexual abuse, including the statute of limitations for such actions
Summary
SB 747 revises Missouri’s civil statute governing actions for childhood sexual abuse. The bill keeps the existing definition of “childhood sexual abuse” but updates the list of referenced criminal offenses and clarifies that “injury” or “illness” includes psychological harm, even without accompanying physical injury. It also changes the filing deadline for civil claims arising from childhood sexual abuse, extending the limitations period from 10 years to 20 years after the plaintiff turns 21, or three years from the date the plaintiff discovers, or reasonably should have discovered, that the injury or illness was caused by childhood sexual abuse, whichever is later.
The bill further states that the revised section applies to actions commenced on or after August 28, 2025. In practical terms, it would broaden the time window for survivors to bring civil lawsuits and could allow more claims to proceed that would otherwise be time-barred under current law. It affects plaintiffs alleging childhood sexual abuse, defendants in such civil actions, and courts applying Missouri’s civil limitations rules.
Impact
SB 747 would amend section 537.046, RSMo, by lengthening the statute of limitations for civil claims based on childhood sexual abuse and by expressly recognizing psychological injury as a compensable harm. It would also update cross-references to Missouri criminal statutes defining the underlying conduct and apply the new rule to actions filed on or after August 28, 2025. The bill would therefore expand potential civil liability exposure for alleged abusers and related tortfeasors while increasing the legal remedies and filing window available to survivors.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee testimony or votes, the available context suggests a generally supportive or reform-oriented posture toward the measure. The bill’s purpose is framed as expanding access to civil justice for survivors of childhood sexual abuse, which typically draws support from victim advocacy interests. No contrary statements, amendments, or recorded opposition are provided in the supplied materials.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely the extended exposure to civil lawsuits: supporters would view the longer limitations period and discovery rule as necessary to account for delayed reporting and psychological trauma, while opponents may argue it increases litigation risk, makes defense of older claims more difficult, and creates uncertainty for potential defendants. Another possible issue is the bill’s retroactive application date for new filings, which can affect claims that were previously barred or near expiration. No specific individuals or groups are identified in the provided transcripts, but the likely stakeholders are survivors’ advocates, civil defense interests, insurers, and institutions that may face historical abuse claims.