Read the letter that was delivered to Speaker DeLeo and President Murray August 2, 2013:
July 31, 2013
Speaker Robert A. DeLeo
Room 356
State House
Boston, MA 02133
President Therese Murray
Suite 332
State House
Boston, MA 02133
Dear Mr. Speaker and Madame President,
We appreciate and respect your long history of leadership on issues of importance to victims of sexual abuse and your full recognition of the constant need to better protect the children of the Commonwealth.
We have seen the continuing emergence of high profile cases that indicate the need for further action. These cases also illustrate how long it often takes poeple to be able to speak out on their experiences of abuse as children.
We want to let you know that we are eager for the opportunity to vote to abolish or retroactively extend the statute of limitations on civil lawsuits for childhood sexual abuse. Many victims are not ready when the statute expires for them at the present age of 21.
An extension will, of course, help older victims by giving them their day in court. But, more importantly, it will encourage victims to come forward - this is the best way to expose predators and protect our children.
We hope you will support favorable action on House 1455 or Senate 633 or an alternative vehicle that does more to protect children.
Sincerely,
Senator William N. Brownsberger & Representative John J. Lawn
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