SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – Lawmakers are trying to give victims of childhood sexual abuse a better chance to hold their abusers accountable with a new bill. The legislation would repeal the statute of limitations, for taking abusers to court for damages in civil court. Speakers on Tuesday shared their stories about how this bill would help victims who struggle with coming forward.

“Please do not allow abusers to continue to hide behind the law, survivors deserve to be met with systems that support and empower them on their journey to justice, no matter how long it takes for us to find the courage to do so,” said Lex Garcia, advocate and survivor.

Lawmakers heard emotional stories from survivors, who shared the difficulties they faced reporting what happened to them. Rep. Marianna Anaya (D-Albuquerque), is sponsoring a bill to eliminate the statute of limitations. Right now, those victims have until they’re 24 years old to take civil action or three years after they’ve disclosed the incident to a licensed provider. Although the bill does not apply to governmental and public entities, Albuquerque Public Schools and the New Mexico Public Schools Insurance Authority expressed concerns.