SD 982 Massachusetts Senate · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act extending the statute of limitations for certain actions involving international human rights abuses

This bill extends the time limit for victims to file civil lawsuits related to specific international human rights abuses. It allows victims of trafficking for forced labor or sexual servitude to file within 10 years of being freed (or until age 18 if a minor during the abuse), and covers lawsuits for torture, genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and extrajudicial killings. The law applies retroactively to past cases and permits victims who win to recover attorney fees. It directly affects individuals who suffered these abuses, providing a longer window to seek legal remedies.
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor