Contact:
Mara Powell
502-895-8167 *122
mpowell@kyyouth.org

Statement by Dr. Terry Brooks, executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates

Kentuckians who are child victims of sexual abuse deserve to have their voices heard, and they are one step closer to that opportunity today with passage of House Bill 47 by the Kentucky House. HB 47, sponsored by Representative Lynn Bechler, creates an opportunity for child victims of sexual assault or abuse to seek justice through civil claims or to pursue criminal charges by extending the length of time they are able to do so.

If a child experiences abuse, research shows that many wait years, some well into adulthood, to disclose their abuse. HB 47, a priority of the Kosair Charities® Face It® Movement, gives victims the opportunity to have their voice heard. Thank you Representative Bechler for championing this measure and the Kentucky House for supporting its passage through consent orders today. We now call on the Kentucky Senate to support this measure as it moves forward.

Stay up-to-date on Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children priorities and other bills that are good for kids on our Kentucky General Assembly Bill Tracker.

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About Kentucky Youth Advocates
Kentucky Youth Advocates believes all children deserve to be safe, healthy, and secure. As THE independent voice for Kentucky’s children, we work to ensure policymakers create investments and policies that are good for children. Learn more at www.kyyouth.org.