Pennsylvania Advances New Protections for Children in Sexual Abuse and Domestic Violence Cases

Key Legislative Moves to Safeguard Children in Abuse Situations

Recent legislative developments in Pennsylvania are making significant strides toward safeguarding children involved in sexual abuse and domestic violence situations. These reforms not only offer anatomical protection for children but also expand legal recourse for survivors whose claims had expired under old statutes of limitations.

House Bill 462 and Constitutional Amendment Bill Clear Initial Hurdles

On June 9, 2025, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives approved two landmark measures:

• House Bill 462, which establishes a two-year window for survivors of childhood sexual abuse to file civil lawsuits—even if previously barred by the statute of limitations, and waives sovereign immunity in some cases.

• A companion bill to amend the Pennsylvania Constitution and authorize a public referendum, enabling a permanent retroactive ‘window’ for claims.

Democrats voted unanimously in support of both bills, while Republicans were largely opposed. These steps reflect growing urgency to deliver justice to survivors denied access due to technical legal barriers.

Broader Reforms Targeting Institutional Accountability

Beyond these civil claim extensions, Pennsylvania lawmakers are advancing reforms that further protect victims:

• HB 963 amends the state Constitution to allow a two-year period for filing previously barred childhood sexual abuse claims.

• Other bills—HB 962, HB 1051, and HB 1171—target abuse across secular and religious institutions by:

  • Extending civil and criminal timelines for child abuse cases

  • Establishing victim compensation funding

  • Clarifying reporting penalties

  • Prohibiting nondisclosure agreements that silence survivors

These initiatives align with recommendations from Pennsylvania’s 2018 Grand Jury Report on clergy abuse and aim to increase institutional transparency and accountability.

What This Means for Survivors in Pennsylvania

Delivering Long-Delayed Justice
According to Representative Nate Davidson, a lead sponsor, the legislation is about restoring access to justice for survivors who were previously blocked by time constraints.

These reforms are particularly crucial for older survivors or those who—due to trauma—could not file claims in their youth. Expanding both the statutory window and legal avenues ensures that more survivors can pursue recognition and compensation.

Reducing Institutional Impunity
By removing statutory barriers and enhancing penalties for non-reporting, these bills directly address systemic failures that enabled abuse to remain hidden. Clarifying consequences and closing loopholes creates stronger legal deterrents.

Survivors of Abuse PA: Legal Support for Sexual Abuse Victims

These legal reforms offer new opportunities—but navigating evolving legislation can be complex.

At Survivors of Abuse PA, under the guidance of Ashley DiLiberto, Esq., our firm stands ready to help survivors understand their rights and determine legal strategies tailored to their needs—whether filing updated or retroactive claims, or pursuing justice through new legal pathways.

You don’t have to face this alone. If you're a survivor seeking to explore your legal options in light of these changes, contact us for a confidential consultation.

Source:

https://www.wtaj.com/news/regional-news/pa-legislation-aims-to-safeguard-children-involved-in-sexual-abuse-domestic-cases/