2 minute read
A new law moving through Oregon could make it easier for survivors of child sexual abuse to seek justice, no matter how much time has passed. House Bill 3582 proposes to eliminate the civil statute of limitations for child sexual abuse claims entirely . If passed, this would mean survivors could file lawsuits at any point in their lifetime, even decades after the abuse occurred.
Under current Oregon law, survivors generally must file civil claims by age 40, or within five years of discovering the harm . But many survivors struggle to come forward due to the lasting trauma, fear, or shame associated with abuse. Advocates say HB 3582 would remove one of the biggest barriers to accountability by giving survivors the time they need to pursue justice on their own terms . The bill also addresses legal language that previously made it harder to hold institutions responsible for their role in covering up or enabling abuse. If passed, HB 3582 would eliminate the requirement that entities had to act “knowingly” in concealing abuse, making it easier to hold organizations accountable .
For survivors, this could be a life-changing development. Many people live with the pain of abuse for decades without realizing they have legal options. Removing these time limits ensures that survivors can come forward when they are ready, not when the law dictates³.
HB 3582 has already advanced through both chambers of the Oregon Legislature with broad support. The bill was signed into law by the Governor on June 26, 2025 , officially removing civil time limits for child sexual abuse lawsuits and expanding the ability to hold institutions accountable . With this law now in effect, Oregon joins a growing list of states prioritizing survivor rights and long-term access to justice.
Contact Us
If you or someone you know experienced sexual abuse, it’s critical to understand how this bill could impact your rights. Our firm is here to help survivors navigate these changing laws and explore legal options with compassion and care. We are monitoring HB 3582 closely and can help you understand whether your case may be affected. Contact the Michael Brady Lynch Firm today at 888-585-5970.
Date: June 30, 2025
Attorney and Editor-In-Chief: Brandon Salter
Editors: Madison Hurley
Citations:
https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3582
https://www.news-journal.com/oregon-moves-closer-to-ending-limits-on-when-sexual-abuse-assault-survivors-can-sue/article_1ba652d9-149d-5370-9ff6-b8fd61017ef7.html
https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2025/05/oregon-bill-removes-time-limits-for-sex-abuse-lawsuits-justice-for-what-happened-to-you-should-never-have-an-expiration-date.html
https://www.opb.org/article/2025/05/30/oregon-closer-ending-limits-sexual-abuse-assault-survivors-can-sue/
https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3582