LANSING (WKZO AM/FM) — The Michigan State Senate has approved a package of bills that addresses some of the perceived gaps in the law revealed by the Larry Nassar scandal, with modifications to a controversial provision extending the statute of limitations for lawsuits retroactively.
The new version requires the assault to have taken place after January 1, 1997, gives victims a one year window after the bill is signed to file, and requires that the person involved knew or should have known what was going on.
MIRS News reports the amendments came hours after a meeting between Senate Leader Arlen Meekhof and Interim MSU President John Engler.
Sponsor Margaret O’Brien still says the bills deliver justice. “Our laws must protect those who are most vulnerable, our children” said O’Brien. “This legislation should put fear in to the heart of any possible pedophile. Justice will be served.”
The package of bills also expands the list of professionals required to report sexual abuse to athletic coaches and trainers, and stiffens the penalties for those who do not report.
It lifts governmental immunity in sexual abuse cases and allows the victims to remain anonymous when they file with the Michigan Court of Claims.
The ten-bill package passed overwhelmingly, getting bi-partisan support, and now heads to the Michigan House for consideration there.
