Anti-Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) legislation becomes one step closer to law in Texas; now awaiting Governor Abbott's signature for enactment.
Texas Lawmakers Pass Tougher Legislation to Ban Nondisclosure Agreements in Sexual Abuse Cases
The Lone Star State is on the verge of preventing the use of nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) in cases of sexual assault, human trafficking, and child sexual abuse. On Sunday, lawmakers approved House Bill 748, also known as "Trey's Law," which aims to prohibit the misuse of NDAs to silence victims from speaking out about their experiences.
Initially focused on child sexual abuse cases, the bill has broadened its scope to encompass a range of sexual assault cases. According to its sponsor, Rep. Jeff Leach, the bill was driven by the desire to bring darkness into the light and prevent anyone from hiding behind such egregious agreements ever again.
House members echoed Leach's sentiments, expressing their unwavering commitment to protect survivors and the voiceless. The bill passed unanimously, receiving 144 votes in favor. It now heads to Governor Greg Abbott's desk for final approval. Should it receive his green light, HB 748 will take effect on September 1, 2025.
Named after Trey Carlock, a victim of child sexual abuse who was prevented from speaking publicly about his experiences due to an NDA, this legislation is seen as a significant victory for victims' rights advocates. Carlock's sister, Elizabeth Carlock Philips, had previously spoken on his behalf during committee hearings.
Delayed by the Senate State Affairs Committee in the past, the bill's progress has been slower. However, the Senate recently passed its companion bill, SB 835, paving the way for HB 748's return to the House for another approval. Despite some initial concern of potential weakening by the Senate, the bill is on track to become law in Texas.
Cindy Clemishire, a victim who testified about her alleged abuser's child sexual abuse charges in Oklahoma, was among those who shared their stories. Leach, in addressing House members, reiterated his commitment to continuously advocating for survivors and ensuring that justice is served.
If signed into law, HB 748 will void NDAs in sexual assault and human trafficking cases, expanding protections beyond child abuse cases. The bill is a significant step towards ensuring that victims have a voice and are no longer silenced by legal agreements designed to shield abusers.
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The Texas government has taken a substantial step forward in the policy-and-legislation realm, passing House Bill 748, also known as "Trey's Law." This legislation, focused on preventing the misuse of nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) in sexual assault, human trafficking, and child sexual abuse cases, is a significant victory for victims' rights advocates. If Governor Greg Abbott approves it, this breaking news will mark a shift in the general-news sphere, ensuring that victims have a voice and are no longer silenced by legal agreements designed to shield abusers.
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