Zonta Club of Everett has joined the Coalition to Eliminate the Civil Statute of Limitations for Child Sexual Abuse, led by the Washington State Association for Justice
Eliminating the Civil Statute of Limitations for Child Sexual Abuse
A civil statute of limitations sets the deadline for a plaintiff to file a legal action when they have been injured by someone else’s conduct. 2SHB 1618 eliminates the civil statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse. This bill acknowledges the unique challenges survivors face and recognizes that there should be no time limit to commence an action for injury suffered as a result of childhood sexual abuse. 2SHB 1618 will shift the cost burden of child sexual abuse from the victims and society at large to those who caused harm and hold perpetrators accountable.
This bill passed the House 82-14
Long-Term Consequences of Child Sex Abuse
Victims of child sex abuse suffer both immediate trauma and long-lasting psychological and physical effects. Adult survivors of child sex abuse exhibit an array of mental health issues, such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Addition and substance abuse
- Disassociation
- Suicidal thoughts
Studies have documented that child sex abuse causes changes to children’s endocrine and immune systems, DNA, and brain development. Girls who are sexually abused might suffer permanent internal damage to their reproductive systems or become pregnant. An abused child might also contract a sexually transmitted disease with lifelong symptoms.
Join us for our upcoming Event: email info@zontaeverett.org for the zoom link.
Program: Why Washington Needs to Eliminate Statute of limitations on Child Sexual Abuse