A new Rhode Island law creates a limited two-year window for survivors to bring claims that were previously barred by old deadlines, including claims against the institutions that enabled or concealed the abuse. The window is open now and closes June 30, 2028.
WHAT CHANGED
For years, many survivors of childhood sexual abuse in Rhode Island were turned away from court for one reason that had nothing to do with what happened to them: too much time had passed.
That has changed.
On June 11, 2026, Rhode Island enacted a law that amends the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse and opens a temporary two-year “revival window.” During this window, survivors whose claims had expired under the old deadlines may be able to file, including against the institutions and supervisors accused of enabling or covering up the abuse.
The window opened July 1, 2026. It closes June 30, 2028.
WHY NOW
This reform followed a March 2026 report from the Rhode Island Attorney General documenting decades of child sexual abuse within the Diocese of Providence and the institutional failures that allowed it to continue. The report identified 75 credibly accused clergy members and more than 300 victims abused between 1950 and 2011.
The new law is broader than the Catholic Church. It reaches institutions of every kind including schools, youth programs, healthcare settings, sports organizations, and other entities that failed to protect children in their care.
“Trauma does not operate on a legal deadline. Survivors deserve the chance to seek justice when they are ready.“
– Brandon Potter, Rhode Island State Representative and attorney, Keches Law Group
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WHAT THE LAW MAY MEAN FOR YOU
You may be able to pursue a civil claim if:
- You were sexually abused as a child in Rhode Island, and
- An institution or supervisor is alleged to have enabled, ignored, or concealed that abuse.
The law allows claims against organizations for failures such as negligent hiring, inadequate supervision, failure to report, or deliberate concealment of an abuser — even in cases where the individual abuser is deceased.
An important note: The law revives many previously time-barred claims, but not all. Claims that were already dismissed by a court specifically because the old statute of limitations had run are treated differently under the new law. The only way to know whether your situation qualifies is to speak with an attorney. A consultation is confidential and carries no obligation.
TIME-SENSITIVE
The revival window is open now and will not stay open. All revived claims must be filed by June 30, 2028.
Building a strong case takes time — gathering records, identifying witnesses, and preparing a filing. Waiting until the deadline approaches can make that work harder. If you are considering whether to come forward, the time to understand your options is now.
