Ohio’s New Scout's Honor Bill Law

Ohio has taken a significant step toward justice for survivors of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) sexual abuse scandal with the passage of the Scout’s Honor bill. The Ohio Senate unanimously passed this legislation, waiving the statutes of limitations for survivors, allowing nearly 2,000 individuals to pursue their full settlement claims from the BSA's $2.7 billion bankruptcy settlement.

Understanding the Legislation

The Scout's Honor bill addresses the critical issue of statutes of limitations, which historically limited the financial compensation survivors could receive. In Ohio, survivors were previously entitled to only 30-45% of their owed amounts due to these limitations. For example, without this bill, an Ohio survivor entitled to $1.7 million could only receive up to approximately $630,000.

The legislation does not alter the 12-year statute of limitations for civil actions in childhood sexual abuse cases in general but specifically extends the timeline for Boy Scouts survivors to ensure they receive their fair share of the settlement.

Legislative Journey

The bill’s journey reflects a broader debate on statutes of limitations. While some lawmakers, like Rep. Jessica Miranda, advocate for extended or eliminated limitations periods, others, like Rep. Bill Seitz, argue for the necessity of time limits to protect against unsubstantiated claims. Despite these debates, the urgency of the Scout's Honor bill and the imminent deadline for survivors to submit claims propelled it to the Senate floor.

Survivor Advocacy

The bill's passage is a testament to the relentless advocacy of survivors and their supporters. Notably, survivor Chris Graham, who was not abused in the Boy Scouts but by a priest, played a crucial role in drafting and advocating for the bill. His testimony and efforts highlight the shared struggle of survivors of childhood sexual abuse and their collective fight for justice.

Eligibility to File a Claim

Determining your eligibility to file a claim under the Scout's Honor Bill involves several key factors:

1. Survivor Status: You must be a survivor of sexual abuse that occurred within the Boy Scouts of America.

2. Timeframe of Abuse: The abuse must have taken place during your involvement with the Boy Scouts, regardless of when the abuse was discovered or reported.

3. Documentation: You should have relevant documentation and evidence supporting your claim. This can include personal statements, records, or corroborating testimonies.

4. State Limitations: While the Scout's Honor Bill extends the statutes of limitations specifically for Boy Scouts survivors, it is important to verify how this applies to your individual case.

5. Submission Deadline: Claims must be submitted within the deadlines set by the Boy Scouts’ settlement trust. Expedite the process to ensure you meet these deadlines.

Reach Out for Legal Help

Navigating the complexities of the legal process can be overwhelming, especially given its time-sensitive nature. Our experienced legal team at oshan and associates is here to help you every step of the way. From evaluating your eligibility to gathering necessary documentation and submitting your claim, we provide comprehensive support to ensure you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.

Time is crucial, so don’t hesitate—contact us today at (206) 335-3880 or fill out our contact form for a confidential consultation and let us guide you through this critical process.

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