Abuse Victims To Rally In Albany For Child Victims Act

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York child molestation victims are returning to the state Capitol to urge lawmakers to allow victims to sue for decades-old abuse.

The Child Victims Act would relax criminal and civil statutes of limitations. Its most controversial provision would allow victims to file civil suits against their alleged abusers — even if the existing statute of limitations has passed.

The measure is backed by the Democratic-controlled Assembly and Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo but has been repeatedly blocked by the Republican-led Senate.

Supporters say the national dialogue on sexual misconduct is empowering victims and hopefully improving the bill's chances in Albany. They plan to gather at the state Capitol on Tuesday.