Survivors linked to the case of Jeffrey Epstein are intensifying calls for legal reform in New York, urging lawmakers to pass a bill that would allow them to seek financial damages from his estate.
Speaking at a legislative hearing in Albany, several women shared emotional testimonies, describing how current laws have limited their ability to pursue full justice. At the center of the issue is a legal restriction that makes it difficult to claim punitive damages from someone who is deceased—something advocates say has effectively protected Epstein’s estate from further liability.
The survivors used the moment to highlight not only their personal experiences but also the lasting impact of the abuse they say they endured. Many argued that despite increased awareness of Epstein’s crimes over the years, gaps in the legal system continue to work against victims.
One of the speakers, Lara Blume McGee, stressed that the issue should not be treated as a political debate but as a matter of basic human rights. Another woman, Glendys Espinal, recounted her experience publicly for the first time, explaining how legal time limits have been used to deny her compensation.
Espinal described being introduced to Epstein while still in school and alleged that he manipulated situations that led to her abuse. Fighting back emotion during her testimony, she said being told her case holds no value under the law has been deeply painful.
Additional testimonies from Carine de Deus and Alexandra Golematis added weight to the growing demand for change, as survivors collectively called on lawmakers to act before the current legislative session ends.
The proposed reform is being championed by Zellnor Myrie, who is pushing for updates to existing sex trafficking laws. Supporters of the bill say it would close a major loophole and give victims a fair chance to hold Epstein’s estate accountable.
Lawyers representing the survivors also emphasized that public statements of support are no longer enough, urging officials to take concrete steps. According to them, New York has the opportunity to set a precedent by ensuring survivors are not denied justice due to technicalities in the law.
