Survivors of sexual abuse and their advocates are expressing frustration over City Council President Adrian Adams’ refusal to support a “retroactive” bill that could empower more victims, including those affected by Jeffrey Epstein’s actions, to pursue legal action.
Jesse Campoamor, a lobbyist representing numerous plaintiffs, commented on the unusual difficulty this bill has faced despite significant support in the Legislature. He hinted that the delays might stem from minor political disputes.
While he prefers to avoid speculation, he mentioned rumors suggesting discontent between the speaker and the bill’s author, possibly due to lingering tensions from the previous mayoral election. Campoamor stated that if this were true, it would be deeply unfortunate when so much is at stake for survivors.
The proposed legislation would permit victims to file lawsuits against the city or its agencies starting in March 2026, irrespective of when the abuse took place. Currently, the statute of limitations allows for lawsuits up to nine years after the incident.
The bill specifically targets actions against city employees and institutions, including the Mount Sinai hospital system, which has been accused of concealing abuse involving 19 patients.
Additionally, it would enable victims of Epstein to sue his estate. Jordan Marson, an attorney representing about 40 of Epstein’s victims, emphasized that failing to bring this bill to a vote equates to protecting Epstein himself, rather than supporting his victims in their search for justice.
Since its introduction in May, the bill has not moved forward in Congress and only had its first public hearing recently. Attorney Jerome Block, representing hundreds of abuse survivors suing the city, stressed that the lives of many assault survivors could hinge on the City Council’s swift action.
The Mayor’s Office estimates that the bill could have significant fiscal implications, potentially costing up to $1 billion.
Block also remarked on the damaging effects of delays on survivors seeking justice. Advocates have noted that the Speaker’s office has been unresponsive, frequently changing its explanations regarding the bill’s stagnant status.
Khalid Melvin, a survivor attempting to sue the city for abuse he claims to have endured at the juvenile detention center, expressed his disappointment over the bill’s stall. “It’s not fair,” said the 47-year-old, who alleges he was abused for several years starting at age 14 in the Bronx facility.
Neither Adams nor Brooks-Powers responded to requests for comments. However, representatives for Adams dismissed the notion of him being driven by trivial politics, labeling such claims as absurd.
They argued that those making irresponsible allegations lack credibility, especially given their affiliation with former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is currently running for mayor and has faced numerous sexual allegations.
A City Council representative indicated that the legislative process is moving forward since the bill’s introduction. They mentioned that earlier this month, in-committee hearings were conducted to allow public testimony.
“Victims of gender-based violence deserve accountability,” they stated, reiterating the importance of following established legislative protocols. They expressed regret that some individuals mischaracterize the process, distorting public understanding with misleading claims.
