An Act relative to the age of consent in certain criminal prosecutions and civil actions for sexual assault and rape of a child

This bill establishes that individuals under 19, or under 22 if they have not yet received a high school diploma, are legally incapable of consenting to sexual relations with employees or contractors of schools, youth services, and other child-serving institutions. The legislation creates new criminal penalties, including up to five years in prison or a $10,000 fine, for staff members who sexually abuse these minors within or outside their workplace. Additionally, the bill grants victims the right to file civil lawsuits against these employees and contractors for sexual assault and rape. These provisions apply to public and private schools, government departments, and colleges, specifically targeting situations where the victim is enrolled in or served by the institution where the perpetrator works.