Previously, the diocese has said it would plan to take the constitutional question to the state’s highest court. CNA sought comment from the Diocese of Portland but did not receive a response by publication.
Attorney Michael Bigos, who is representing over a dozen plaintiffs in civil lawsuits for alleged sex abuse, welcomed the decision to uphold the law.
“Survivors have suffered a lifetime of pain that has affected their relationships at home, at work, and in the world. Now survivors are empowered to face those who allowed such heinous abuse and hold them accountable,” he said, according to the AP.
At present, there are 13 lawsuits against the Diocese of Portland from men and women who say they were abused as children by Catholic priests and, in at least one case, by a religious sister.
Many abuse claims have resulted in private settlements. More alleged victims with claims of abuse could still file, as some lawyers have delayed filing complaints until constitutional questions are settled in court, the Portland Press Herald reported.
The lawsuits could be very costly for the diocese and any other organization sued under the law.