Sept. 1 marked a milestone for survivors of sexual assault in Texas and Missouri. Trey’s Law, which bans the misuse of nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) in civil settlements involving sexual assault, is now officially in effect. The new law aims to ensure restrictive legal agreements no longer silence survivors.
Texas Expands Protections Beyond Child Victims
In Texas, the law allows survivors to speak freely about their experiences unless a court explicitly orders otherwise. Unlike Missouri, Texas broadened the scope to include all sexual assault and human trafficking cases, regardless of the victim’s age. Lawmakers credited powerful survivor testimonies, including those from victims of Kanakuk Kamps, Boy Scouts, and church institutions, with shaping the final version.
Missouri’s Narrower Focus
Missouri’s version, HB-737, went into effect the same day but applies only to child sexual abuse cases. Advocates argue it is a step forward, though some believe the law should expand to protect all victims of sexual assault.
Inspiration Behind the Law
The legislation is named after Trey Carlock, a Dallas native who was abused for years at Kanakuk Kamps. His lawsuit settlement included an NDA so restrictive that his family says it contributed to his death in 2019. His sister, Elizabeth Carlock Phillips, praised the law as a victory for survivors, saying it ensures no one else faces such enforced silence.
Bipartisan Support and Survivor Advocacy
Trey’s Law gained rare unanimous bipartisan support, passing 144-0 in the Texas House and 31-0 in the Senate. Lawmakers described the measure as one of the strongest protections for survivors in the country. Advocates are now urging survivors to share their stories using the hashtag #TruthSetFree and through the newly launched platform on Trey’s Law’s website.
Supporters and Critics Weigh In
Supporters hail the legislation as groundbreaking, ensuring that survivors have control over their own voices. Critics, however, caution that removing confidentiality could complicate settlements and reduce compensation for victims in some cases. Still, the law’s passage signals a shift toward prioritizing transparency and survivor empowerment.
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‘Trey’s Law’ Is Now In Effect, Making NDAs Unenforceable In Texas And Missouri
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