Oregon lawmakers are considering a bill that would increase the statute of limitations for rape cases from six to 20 years. HB 2317A would also extend the time limit for criminal charges against child rapists to the victim’s 30th birthday. Here is a recent news article- http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/04/brenda_tracy_sexual_assault_su.html#incart_2box_news_index.ssf
Victims of rape and sexual assault very often need many years to get over the shame and trauma before they come forward to pursue criminal charges. Criminal statutes need to reflect this psychological reality so that victims can seek justice and criminals can be held accountable.
The fact that criminal charges may be more difficult to defend against years later is not enough of a reason to stick with unreasonable short deadlines for rape charges. The passage of time also makes rape cases more difficult to prove, so the playing field is balanced.
Please urge your Oregon House Representative to support HB 2317A. You can find your Representative and contact information here: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/FindYourLegislator/leg-districts.html