GA HB1479

Extends the statute of limitations for civil claims of sexual assault, sexual battery, or improper sexual conduct by clergy members against adult victims to 15 years from the alleged conduct, or 5 years from when the plaintiff discovered the abuse caused injury (whichever is later)

Defines "clergy member" broadly to include any person representing themselves as a minister, pastor, priest, rabbi, imam, or other spiritual leader, whether licensed or unlicensed, who provides spiritual guidance or pastoral counseling

Allows plaintiffs to recover damages against religious entities (churches, organizations) for negligent hiring, negligent supervision, negligent retention, failure to warn, and concealment if the clergy member was employed by or volunteering for that entity

Creates a two-year revival window starting July 1, 2026, for previously time-barred claims that arose on or before June 30, 2026

Requires courts to make a pretrial determination within six months regarding when discovery of the alleged acts occurred for cases filed under the delayed discovery provision