Overview of the Maryland Child Victims Act

The Maryland Child Victims Act is a groundbreaking law that aims to provide justice for survivors of child sexual abuse. Enacted in April 2023, this legislation removes the statute of limitations for civil lawsuits related to child sexual abuse. As a result, survivors can now file claims at any time, regardless of when the abuse occurred. This reform is intended to hold perpetrators and institutions accountable while also giving survivors more time to seek legal action.

Key Provisions of the Maryland Child Victims Act

✔ No More Statute of Limitations – Survivors can now file lawsuits whenever they are ready, even if the abuse happened decades ago.

✔ Higher Financial Compensation – The law significantly increases the cap on civil damages:

• $1.5 million for private institutions

• $890,000 for public entities

✔ Greater Institutional Accountability – Schools, churches, and government agencies can now be held legally responsible for past cases of abuse.

Legal Challenges and Current Status

Since the law went into effect on October 1, 2023, it has faced multiple legal challenges questioning its constitutionality. In fact, the Maryland Supreme Court began hearing arguments against the law in September 2024. A final ruling is expected by August 2025, which will determine whether the law can remain in place or if it must be revised.

Impact of the Maryland Child Victims Act

Surge in Lawsuits

Since its passage, the law has led to a significant increase in lawsuits filed by survivors of child sexual abuse. For instance, as of January 2025, more than 3,500 lawsuits have been filed, primarily against Maryland’s juvenile justice system.

Financial and Institutional Consequences

• The Archdiocese of Baltimore filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on September 29, 2023, citing an overwhelming number of expected lawsuits.

• Meanwhile, state analysts estimate that legal settlements could cost Maryland hundreds of millions or even billions of dollars.

Why the Maryland Child Victims Act Matters

For many survivors, this law represents long-overdue justice. By eliminating legal barriers, the Act provides them with an opportunity to expose past abuses, hold offenders accountable, and seek compensation for their suffering.

Furthermore, this legislation may help prevent future abuse by sending a strong message that institutions must take responsibility for their actions. However, critics argue that the financial burden of these lawsuits could strain public resources, creating a challenging balancing act for state policymakers.

What’s Next for the Maryland Child Victims Act?

With a Maryland Supreme Court ruling expected by August 2025, the future of the Act remains uncertain. If the court upholds the law, it could serve as a blueprint for other states considering similar legislation. On the other hand, if the law is overturned, lawmakers may need to revise it to comply with constitutional requirements.

Final Thoughts

The Maryland Child Victims Act is one of the most significant legal changes in the state’s history. Not only does it provide survivors with a new path to justice, but it also challenges institutions to acknowledge their past failures.

Nevertheless, with ongoing legal scrutiny and financial concerns, the law’s future remains in question. As Maryland awaits the Supreme Court’s ruling, many survivors and advocacy groups continue to push for justice, hoping that their voices will be heard.