Legislation Extending the Civil Statute of Limitations for
Childhood Sexual Assault Moves to Senate
Santa Fe, NM – Today, in a critical step toward justice and accountability, the New Mexico House of Representatives has passed House Bill 73: The Survivor Justice Act, a bill that extends the civil statute of limitations for childhood sexual assault, ensures survivors can seek justice for much longer period than in the current statute.
Sponsored by Representative Marianna Anaya (D-Albuquerque), The Survivors Justice Act passed New Mexico's House of Representatives unanimously, 65-0. Advocates and survivors have long fought for this change, highlighting how the trauma of childhood sexual assault often prevents victims from coming forward until years, even decades later—long after the current legal deadline to file a civil claim has expired.
"We believe you, we support your right to seek justice on your timeline, not the abuser's," said House Bill 73 co-sponsor Representative Nicole Chavez (R-Albuquerque). "We will not protect abusers by hiding behind outdated statutes of limitations. This is about justice, this is about healing, and it's about accountability for survivors."
House Bill 73 recognizes the realities of trauma—that many survivors do not disclose their abuse right away due to shame, fear, self-blame, or the psychological impact of their experiences. This legislation aligns New Mexico with 32 other states that have reformed their laws to remove barriers to justice for survivors.
"Survivors of childhood sexual abuse are forced to carry the weight of their trauma for decades, while the system protects abusers and the institutions that enable them," said childhood survivor and survivor advocate Dr. Lex Garcia. "While this bill takes a step in the right direction, it excludes too many from getting the justice they deserve. New Mexico must stand with survivors, and ensure that those who harm children are held accountable. Survivors deserve to seek justice, no matter how long it takes for us to find the courage to do so."
A recent House Appropriations and Finance Committee amendment to House Bill 73 extends the statute of limitations to 58 years of age, and excludes taking civil action against public employees or institutions. Currently, survivors in New Mexico face one of the most restrictive statutes of limitations in the country, forcing many to remain silent or be shut out of the courts entirely. To protect their profits, powerful insurance companies and institutions actively work to silence survivors who are met with delays, denials, and legal loopholes designed to prevent them from ever getting their day in court.
House Bill 73 now moves to the New Mexico Senate.
New Mexico Safety Over Profit (NM SOP) is a network of individuals and families harmed by multi-billion dollar out-of-state corporations, insurance companies, institutions, and profit-driven systems. NM SOP advocates for policies that increase safety for all New Mexicans and believes greater transparency and accountability result in significantly improved health and safety for families.
To learn more about NM SOP's advocacy, visit www.nmsop.org. For more information or to arrange interviews with bill sponsors or advocates, please contact Stephanie Maez at
