Chris Holden’s Legislation to Ensure Victims of Human Rights Abuses Get Their Day in Court Becomes Law (AB 15)

Assembly Majority Leader Chris Holden’s bill (AB 15) to ensure justice for victims of human rights abuses was signed into law today by Governor Brown.

AB 15 extends the statute of limitations to ten years for human trafficking and other abuse cases in civil claims. Currently, California has a two-year statute of limitations, which is often too short to gather evidence to ensure victims get a fair trial.

“Victims of human rights abuses deserve justice. I continue to be an advocate for these survivors because I admire their courage and willingness to step out and strive toward finding closure. I believe AB 15 gives survivors a chance to have their voice heard,” said Holden (D-Pasadena).

Human trafficking – including child sex trafficking – remains a fast-growing criminal industry. California has the questionable distinction of being a top destination for human traffickers with most cases simply flying under the radar. This bill will help the victims and their families find some measure of justice.

AB 15 brings California law into line with federal regulations for filing civil lawsuits based on acts of genocide, torture, war crimes and human trafficking. In California, these human rights abuses are brought as assault, battery or wrongful death claims.

AB 15 is supported by organizations such as the International Corporate Accountability Roundtable, the Armenian National Committee of America, Amnesty International, California Catholic Conference, Oxfam America, as well as various women and health groups.