AUGUSTA - A proposal by Rep. Lori Gramlich, D-Old Orchard Beach, to help victims of childhood sexual abuse access justice is now law. Gov. Janet Mills signed the bill Monday.
"As a kid, I knew I couldn't change what happened to me, but I also knew that, when I was a grown-up, I would do my best to make things better for others," said Gramlich. "As a social worker, I have worked my entire professional life to affect systemic change and to give voice to fellow survivors."
Gramlich's bill eliminates the statute of limitations to allow survivors of child sexual abuse to seek justice through the courts regardless of when the abuse occurred.
"This legislation will not just give survivors of child sexual abuse the right to justice they so deserve, but perhaps more importantly, it also will expose hidden sexual predators in our midst and hold accountable institutions that cover up abuse and fail to protect children," said Kathryn Robb, the executive director of CHILD USAdvocacy and a survivor. "Thanks to the outstanding work of Rep. Gramlich and other leaders, Maine's children are now the safest in the country."
Many survivors of childhood sexual abuse wait to report or never report their abuse, even into adulthood. Research shows that survivors average age at the time of reporting child sexual abuse is about 52 years old.
"Now, for many survivors it's possible for the truth to see the light of day," said attorney Mike Bigos, who has represented many survivors of sexual abuse. "Come forward when you are ready. For many, it is time."
"I want fellow survivors to hear this: You are not defined by your abuse," said Gramlich. "You deserve to be heard and believed. You deserve justice. That is what this bill is about."
The law will go into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.
Gramlich is a longtime social worker and public health advocate who is currently serving her second term in the Maine House. She is a member of the Taxation Committee and the Environment and Natural Resources Committee.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Gramlich], c. 812-1111