Federal bill voids silence clauses tied to child sexual abuse cases

What does this do?

TREY'S Law makes it illegal to enforce nondisclosure or confidentiality clauses in settlements or other contracts that prevent someone from speaking out about the sexual abuse of a child. The law applies to both new and existing agreements, meaning contracts signed years ago are also covered. Confidentiality clauses covering financial details such as payment amounts or terms may still remain valid, but clauses that prevent disclosure of the abuse itself are void.

Who does it affect?

The law affects child sexual abuse survivors, witnesses, and anyone else who signed a confidentiality agreement related to such abuse. It also applies to parties who might try to enforce those agreements, including alleged abusers and institutions.

Why does it matter?

Victims, alleged victims, or anyone with knowledge of child sexual abuse could speak freely without risk of being sued for violating a contract. The law overrides state laws that would permit these silence clauses to be enforced, while still allowing states to enact stronger protections for victims.

Where does it stand?