Currently, childhood sexual abuse victims must file suit against predators or institutions within six years of becoming adults — age 24, explained Rep. Steve Simon, DFL-St. Louis Park, and Sen. Ron Latz, DFL-St. Louis Park, bill authors. Rep. Sondra Erickson, R-Princeton, said as a parent and teacher she understood that childhood secrets can remain secrets into adulthood. Beyond addressing lingering crimes, advocates argue eliminating the statute of limitations can prevent future crimes. That’s because sex offenders in their 70s, 80s, hunched over walkers or even in wheelchairs, will continue to abuse children, Jeff Dion, deputy executive director, National Center for Victims of Crime, said. “Pedophiles don’t retire,” he said.