What’s new in the news?

Statute of Limitations Reform

Hello All – 

Last week, Senate Joint Resolution 93 was unanimously voted out of the Missouri Senate Judiciary Committee after powerful testimony from survivors of child sexual abuse and advocates. This legislation would put a vote on the Missouri ballot to amend the constitution to enact retroactive laws for civil cases involving child sexual abuse (CSA) and trafficking. In order to give CSA survivors a road to justice and stop such abuses, NCMCAC sees this as a transformational opportunity for our state. We will strive to see this legislation through to its completion this year, and we are honored to stand with survivors.

Senate Bill 43

July 9, 2025

This legislation increases the age for a child’s recorded forensic interview to be admissible in court from 14 to 18. The recorded forensic interview provides critical insight into the child’s state at the time of the abuse, including their age, cognitive development, language abilities, and emotional state. It offers context that cannot be fully captured through later testimony alone.

Senate Bill 43 also raises and extends the Champion for Children Tax Credit, helping agencies like ours continue providing critical services to children and families impacted by abuse.

Representatives visit the Advocacy Center

November 1, 2019

The North Central Missouri Children’s Advocacy Center was visited Friday by State Representatives Rusty Black and Peggy McGaugh as well as Missouri Kids First Public Policy Director Jessica Sites. We were very pleased to take them on a tour of our facility as well as visit with them regarding our mission and goals. Thank you for taking the time out of your schedules to visit with us! Pictured Left to Right: Tammy Nickell, Forensic Interviewer; Peggy McGaugh, State Representative; Rusty Black, State Representative; Cathie Smith, CAC Founder; Ashlay Berry, Family Advocate; Amy Montgomery, LPC; Verna Kelsey, Executive Director; Stacey McCullough, Family Advocate; Denise Hamilton, Board Member; Jessica Sites, MO Kids 1st Public Policy Director; Lori Irvine, Board President; Darrell Wright, Board Vice President; Jon Maples, Board Member; Amanda White, Development Coordinator not pictured. 

House Bill 739

House Bill 739 will allow school districts to contact a potential employee’s former employer and inquire about any violations that may have occurred during their employment. The former employer will be required to disclose the actual violation of the schools’ regulations as it pertains to any sexual misconduct with a student. This bill will also require criminal background checks for school volunteers for those having regular one-on-one contact with students or who have access to student records. Wins for Missouri children! Read the full article here:  https://newsroom.house.mo.gov/news/918