Pennsylvania Kathy Boockvar Resignation
For some, it was a kick in the gut.
Some lawmakers and advocates have fought for nearly a decade to reform the state’s child sex crime laws. Now, members of the General Assembly, who were within days of approval for a long-anticipated constitutional amendment to open the doors to justice for victims, are outraged to learn a procedural mistake at the highest level has dealt a body blow to their efforts.
“I’m devastated. I’m just stunned,” said Rep. Mark Rozzi, D-Berks County.
Lawmakers learned Monday that due to a procedural mistake, a proposed amendment to the state constitution to aid victims of child sex abuse will be delayed by two years. The Department of State failed to advertise the proposed amendment that would provide a two-year window for litigation by survivors of child sexual abuse who are beyond the statute of limitations.
Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar will resign Feb. 5, Gov. Tom Wolf announced Monday; Spotlight PA first reported the news. Lawmakers had hoped voters could approve the amendment this spring. Because of the error, the earliest the amendment can appear on a ballot would be 2023.