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Photo: Virginia Giuffre by Emily Michot; via Wikipedia.
Democratic leaders in Congress have introduced legislation that would remove the statute of limitations for federal civil lawsuits involving sexual abuse and sex trafficking. The proposal, known as Virginia’s Law, is named after Virginia Giuffre, whose allegations against Jeffrey Epstein and his associates helped bring renewed global attention to sexual exploitation and trafficking, Al Jazeera reported.
Giuffre accused Epstein and others of sexually abusing and trafficking her in the 1990s when she was a teenager. She later reached a settlement in her civil case against Prince Andrew. Giuffre died by suicide in April 2025. Members of her family joined Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez in announcing the bill, describing it as part of Giuffre’s legacy to empower survivors.
What Virginia’s Law Would Do
Virginia’s Law would eliminate the statute of limitations for federal civil claims arising from sexual abuse and trafficking. Under current federal law, many trafficking-related civil claims must generally be filed within 10 years. While Congress previously removed time limits for certain child sexual abuse claims, those changes did not apply retroactively to older cases.
If passed, Virginia’s Law would allow survivors whose claims are currently time-barred under federal law to pursue civil actions, regardless of when the abuse occurred. The bill would apply only to federal cases, not state claims.
Legal experts note that the proposal would cover cases falling under federal jurisdiction, including matters involving interstate activity, such as transportation across state lines or the use of the internet or mail.
Why Supporters Say the Change Is Needed
Supporters argue that survivors of sexual abuse and trafficking often need years — sometimes decades — before they are able to come forward. Trauma, fear, coercion, shame, and threats from abusers can delay reporting or legal action.
“When the truth finally came out about Epstein, many survivors were told it was too late,” Schumer said during remarks introducing the legislation. “Justice should not have an expiration date.”
Giuffre’s brother, Sky Roberts, said the bill reflects Virginia’s long-stated goal of helping survivors reclaim their voices. “She wanted survivors to be heard, no matter how much time had passed,” he said.
Limits of the Proposal
Virginia’s Law would not change state statutes of limitations, which vary widely across the country. Survivors pursuing state-law claims would still be subject to individual state filing deadlines unless separate state reforms apply.
Constitutional lawyer Bruce Fein noted that the bill is narrowly tailored to federal jurisdiction. State laws governing assault, negligence, or institutional liability would remain in effect alongside any federal remedy.
Legislative Outlook
The bill must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate before it can be signed into law. With Republicans holding slim majorities in both chambers, the proposal would require bipartisan support.
While no vote has been scheduled, recent bipartisan cooperation on transparency measures related to Epstein records suggests the issue continues to draw cross-party attention.
Potential Impact
If enacted, Virginia’s Law could significantly expand survivors’ ability to file federal civil lawsuits, particularly in trafficking-related cases. Some attorneys predict a wave of new filings from survivors whose claims were previously barred.
Advocates say the broader significance lies beyond litigation volume. For many survivors, the ability to file suit represents recognition, validation, and accountability.
Were You Sexually Abused or Trafficked?
You may still have legal options, even if the abuse happened years ago. Learn how survivors are pursuing civil claims and what steps you can take.
