The Knesset approved the bill in its final readings, expanding the definition of family member for statute of limitations purposes to include cousins. The bill, sponsored by MKs Merav Michaeli and Shali Tal-Miron, aims to allow more victims of familial sexual abuse to seek justice, according to N12.
The Knesset passed a bill Friday morning expanding the statute of limitations for sexual abuse and assault within the family, including cases involving cousins. Under the new law, the definition of 'family member' is widened to include cousins, allowing victims abused by a cousin to file complaints within the same extended time frame as other familial abuse cases. The bill was sponsored by MKs Merav Michaeli (Labor) and Shali Tal-Miron (National Unity) and cleared its second and third readings.
This legislation is separate from a bill passed in June that extended the statute of limitations for sex offenses against minors until the victim turns 48. The current bill addresses a gap in the definition of family member, which previously did not explicitly include cousins. The Knesset has been advancing a series of measures aimed at broadening legal avenues for victims of sexual abuse, with cross-party support.
The bill's passage marks another step in ongoing legislative efforts to strengthen protections for victims of familial sexual abuse. The law is expected to take effect upon publication in the official gazette.
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