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VA HB538

Bill

Official Source

Status

Introduced

1/13/2026

Primary Sponsor

Karen Hamilton

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Eliminates the statute of limitations entirely for civil actions involving sexual abuse of a minor when the abuser was a "person of authority" over the victim
  • Currently, actions for sexual abuse during infancy must be brought within 20 years after the cause of action accrues under existing Virginia law
  • Defines "person of authority" as a person in a position of trust having influence over the victim's life
  • Amends § 8.01-243 of the Code of Virginia governing personal injury statutes of limitations
  • Allows victims of childhood sexual abuse by authority figures to file civil lawsuits at any time, regardless of when the abuse occurred

Legislative Description

Statute of limitations; sexual abuse of a minor, act by a person of authority.

Last Action

Left in Committee Courts of Justice

2/18/2026

Committee Referrals

Education2/18/2026
Courts of Justice2/18/2026
Courts of Justice: Civil1/22/2026
Courts of Justice1/13/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available