Cosby, Catholic Church rape cases prompt states to rethink statutes of limitations

Fueled by sexual abuse allegations against comedian Bill Cosby and the Catholic Church, and other high-profile cases dating back decades, state legislators across the country are considering lengthening or eliminating statutes of limitations on rape.
Statutes of limitations, which exist for most crimes besides murder, are intended to encourage the timely reporting of crimes. As time passes, evidence deteriorates or gets lost, memories fade and witnesses die.

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/states-decide-how-to-handle-statutes-of-limitations-for-rape/#