According to RAINN, someone is sexually abused every 98 seconds. The Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse Act of 2017 hopes to prevent the sexual abuse of minors and amateur athletes. The bill stems from sexual abuse allegations against amateur organizations such as USA Gymnastics, USA Swimming and USA Taekwondo, which have recently been in the international spotlight.
Per the proposed Congressional bill, all amateur athletic governing bodies would be required to immediately report sex-abuse allegations to local or federal law enforcement or child-welfare agencies designated by the Justice Department. Supporters of the bill are hopeful this will encourage victims to come forward against their abusers.
Incidents such as this are a reminder that all allegations of sexual abuse must be thoroughly investigated by law enforcement and that all organizations who are responsible for the safety of minors must be vigilant in the supervision and protection of our children at all times.
Letters of support of the bill (S.534) can be sent to Senator Feinstein and Senator Grassley:
The Honorable Senator Dianne Feinstein
United States Senate
331 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
The Honorable Senator Chuck Grassley
United States Senate
135 Hart Building Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Attorney Adam Horowitz is experienced in filing lawsuits nationwide on behalf of child sexual abuse victims. You can reach Adam Horowitz at adam@adamhorowitzlaw.com or call our law firm at (954) 641-2100.