TALLAHASSEE, Fla.  - All time limits would be lifted for filing criminal or civil sexual abuse cases in which victims are minors under a bill that has cleared the Florida House.

The civil portion of the bill (HB 525), which passed unanimously Monday, would apply only to future cases. It next goes to the Senate, which is expected to vote later this week. The civil portion is opposed by the Florida Catholic Conference, which contends it would create great uncertainty for any organization.

The Roman Catholic Church has faced numerous lawsuits alleging sexual abuse. Florida law requires suits alleging rape to be filed within four years. With only two exceptions there are currently no criminal time limits for sex crimes against minors.