MAP Forum

In 2019, California lifted the statute of limitations to file child sex abuse lawsuits. Since then, thousands have poured in, with settlements that have strained local agencies. One of the most costly examples is Los Angeles County agreeing to a $4 billion settlement to resolve 6,800 sexual abuse claims that date back to 1959. State lawmakers are now weighing whether to limit the ability to sue. SB 577 would set a deadline to file child sexual abuse lawsuits against schools, juvenile facilities and foster care agencies that are already buckling under the weight of current and threatened legal action. Sara Tiano is a Senior Reporter for the nonprofit newsroom The Imprint, a digital publication that focuses on youth and family news, and joins us with her reporting ahead of a key vote.

Santa Monica city leaders are being asked to declare a fiscal emergency due to the city’s ongoing budget crisis, according to a city agenda.

A staff report for Tuesday’s City Council agenda cites several challenges, including legal payouts related to a notorious alleged sexual abuser who worked for the city.

The city has paid out more than $229 million in settlements relating to sexual abuse by Eric Uller, a former Santa Monica police dispatcher. The city faces additional abuse claims from over 180 claimants, according to the report.