The New Mexico House Appropriations and Finance Committee convened on March 8, 2025, to discuss a significant bill aimed at extending the statute of limitations for survivors of childhood sexual assault. The proposed legislation would allow survivors a three-year window to file civil claims after the bill's enactment, which is set for July 1, 2025.

During the meeting, Representative Anaya, the bill's sponsor, emphasized the importance of this legislation for survivors, stating that it would enable individuals to seek justice for abuses that may have occurred at any time in the past. The three-year look-back period would apply to all claims, allowing survivors from any year to come forward. Anaya noted that while some states have eliminated statute of limitations entirely, New Mexico's proposal seeks a more moderate approach.

Dr. Lex Garcia, a survivor and expert on the bill, shared her personal experience of being a victim of childhood sexual abuse. She highlighted the emotional and psychological toll that the current laws impose on survivors, who often struggle to report their abuse within the existing time limits. Garcia argued that the bill is not just about seeking justice for past wrongs but also about preventing future abuse by holding perpetrators accountable.

The committee heard supportive testimonies from various stakeholders, including retired law enforcement officers and advocates, who underscored the need for expanded opportunities for victims to seek justice. They expressed that civil court may be the only recourse for many survivors, especially when criminal charges are difficult to secure.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adopt a committee substitute for the bill, which was met with no objections. The committee plans to gather further public comments and questions in the upcoming sessions, indicating a strong community interest in the legislation's implications for survivors of childhood sexual assault in New Mexico.