New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A05236

Introduced
2/12/25  
Refer
2/12/25  

Caption

Relates to the period of limitation for the prosecution of sex offenses committed against children; such actions may be commenced within 15 years after such child has reached the age of 18.

Summary

Bill A05236 amends the criminal procedure law in New York to extend the statute of limitations for prosecuting sex offenses against children. Specifically, it allows for prosecution of such offenses to commence within fifteen years after the victim has reached the age of eighteen. This change aims to provide more time for survivors of childhood sexual abuse to come forward and seek justice, reflecting a growing recognition of the complexities surrounding the reporting of such crimes.

Impact

The bill significantly alters the existing legal framework regarding the prosecution of sexual offenses against minors. By repealing certain provisions of the criminal procedure law that previously limited the time frame for prosecution, it opens the door for more cases to be brought to court, potentially leading to increased accountability for offenders. This change may also encourage more survivors to report their experiences, knowing they have a longer period to seek legal recourse.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A05236 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among advocates for survivors of sexual abuse. The Assembly Codes Committee voted in favor of the bill, with a majority of members recognizing the importance of extending the statute of limitations to allow victims more time to come forward. However, there are concerns from some lawmakers regarding the implications for defendants and the potential for increased legal challenges.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns raised by some lawmakers about the fairness of extending the statute of limitations, particularly regarding the rights of the accused. Critics argue that longer time frames may lead to difficulties in defending against older allegations, while supporters emphasize the need for justice for survivors who may take years to come forward due to trauma or fear of stigma.

Companion Bills

NY S01976

Same As Relates to the period of limitation for the prosecution of sex offenses committed against children; such actions may be commenced within 15 years after such child has reached the age of 18.

Previously Filed As

NY S02910

Relates to the period of limitation for the prosecution of sex offenses committed against children; such actions may be commenced within 15 years after such child has reached the age of 18.

NY S01976

Relates to the period of limitation for the prosecution of sex offenses committed against children; such actions may be commenced within 15 years after such child has reached the age of 18.

NY S08855

Tolls the statute of limitations for endangering the welfare of a child until such child reaches the age of twenty-three.

NY A07984

Tolls the statute of limitations for endangering the welfare of a child until such child reaches the age of twenty-three.

NY SB0326

Offenses against children.

NY S10498

Relates to the commencement of certain sexual offense actions; extends the time for such commencement to two years and six months after the effective date of the section of law allowing such actions.

NY HB399

AN ACT relating to sexual offenses against children.

NY HB199

AN ACT relating to sexual offenses against children.

NY A08449

Prohibits accessing or distributing certain sexually explicit depictions of children; prohibits consent to such depictions by anyone under eighteen years of age; makes such crimes eligible for bail; includes certain crimes as sex offenses.

NY S09781

Removes statute of limitations for certain civil actions related to child sexual assault offenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.