A growing national push to ban non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in child sex abuse cases, known as Trey’s Law, has expanded to Oklahoma, Georgia, and Alabama. The proposed legislation aims to stop institutions from silencing victims through civil settlement clauses, a practice survivors say prolongs trauma and shields abusers. Advocates say outlawing these NDAs is critical to exposing systemic abuse and protecting future victims.
Oklahoma Leads with Strong Provisions
Oklahoma State Rep. Chris Kannady filed HB 4227 to ban NDAs in child sex abuse cases and abolish the statute of limitations on criminal claims. The bill mirrors key elements of Texas’s version, which was praised for its retroactive application. Cindy Clemishire, an abuse survivor who previously testified in Texas, supports the Oklahoma bill and emphasized how rejecting an NDA allowed her to later speak out. Her testimony highlights the lasting harm NDAs cause.
Alabama Approves Limited Version
Alabama lawmakers unanimously passed SB 30 and HB 93 in both chambers, but their version of Trey’s Law applies only to future agreements. Critics say this makes the bill largely symbolic. “Because it’s not retroactive, it’s toothless,” said one detractor. The legislation still requires a second chamber vote before becoming law. State Rep. Susan DuBose defended the measure, stating it gives victims a voice and is a step forward.
Georgia to Follow, Governor Signals Support
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced plans for a similar bill, pledging it would help “expose abusers and save lives.” He echoed the language of the broader coalition behind Trey’s Law, which continues to grow across the country. Georgia would become the seventh state to pass the law, following recent adoptions in Texas and Missouri.
Personal Tragedy Fuels National Campaign
Trey’s Law is named after Trey Carlock, a former Kanakuk Kamps attendee abused for a decade by counselor Pete Newman. Trey later died by suicide, bound by a settlement NDA that kept him silent. His sister, Phillips, now leads the No More Victims Alliance to pass the law nationwide. She argues NDAs trap survivors and allow abusers to continue unchecked. “They will always control me,” Trey once said, “and I’ll never be free.”
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Politicians in Okla., Ga., Alabama prioritize banning NDAs for sex abuse victims
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