The Maryland’s Child Victims Act of 2023 was officially upheld as constitutional today, marking a historic victory for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. This decision allows survivors to pursue justice regardless of how much time has passed since the abuse.
Under previous law, survivors were required to file civil lawsuits within three years of the abuse, silencing many who were not ready to come forward until adulthood. With this landmark ruling, those who were previously barred from legal recourse can now move forward in their fights for justice against their abusers and the institutions that enabled the abuse.
Maryland joins 23 other states in removing legal barriers that once prevented survivors from pursuing justice. Importantly, this law applies to all survivors of child sexual abuse, not just those impacted by clergy abuse, offering a path to justice for individuals and institutions alike.
This decision is more than a legal victory. It is a profound step forward for survivors who have long been denied their day in court. BMF stands with survivors of child sexual abuse and remains committed to advocating for their rights and fighting for justice.