California braces for deluge of child-sex-assault lawsuits under new law

Under existing law, victims of child sex abuse have until age 26 to file a lawsuit, or three years from the time of discovery that psychological injury was caused by sexual abuse suffered as a child.

The new law, which was sponsored by Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego) and takes effect Jan. 1, raises the statute of limitations to 40 years of age, or up to five years after discovery. The law also opens a three-year window that allows victims of any age to sue on previously expired claims.

The new law, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom last week, is expected to result in an avalanche of litigation aimed at indelible institutions such as the Roman Catholic Church and the Boy Scouts of America, as well as local school districts, foster care agencies, hospitals and youth sports organizations. read more »

Slain Robbinsville woman inspires federal ‘Sami’s Law’ bill regulating ride-share industry

The violent death of Robbinsville woman Samantha “Sami” Josephson may prompt federal lawmakers into passing legislation regulating the ride-share industry.

Republican Congressman Chris Smith of New Jersey has introduced new legislation this week that would require companies like Lyft and Uber to implement certain features promoting transit safety for ride-share drivers and customers.

“The idea for the legislation came directly from the grieving parents of a young woman brutally murdered by a fake Uber driver,” Smith said Wednesday during a congressional subcommittee hearing on H.R. 4686. “Now we know there are significant personal safety concerns associated with actual Uber and Lyft drivers as well — not just the fakes — that are not well appreciated or publicized.” read more »