My very first sexual encounter was through rape.  That's how I lost my virginity.  I went home, cried, and then didn't tell anyone for over a year.  I was advised to file criminal charges against him, but I knew it would just be my word against his and I didn't like my odds- by this point I had already created a less than favorable reputation for myself in college.  I knew who my abuser was.  There was no rape kit, no DNA evidence waiting to come back.  My shame was the only thing keeping me quiet.  By the time I felt like I had found my voice, the statute of limitations had run out. 

Some victims never even get the choice of filing criminal charges.  With the push to clear the rape kit backlog I know that some cases will be solved soon but unfortunately for many it will be too late to file charges.  Can you imagine the heartbreak and fear of a victim knowing someone like that is still out there?  Someone who is willing to take sex by force doesn't just do that one time.  By ending the statute of limitations on sexual abuse we will give victims the opportunity to file charges as they see fit.  

The statute of limitations on sexual abuse or rape of an adult is ten years in Texas.  This number varies by state- some states have already done away with it.  I plan to gather as many signatures as I can and sending this petition to whoever sits in the state senate seats after the 2020 election.  Please sign this petition and help victims get their voices back in Texas.