A bill that makes sure survivors of sexual abuse can share their stories without fear of legal repercussions has passed the Legislature and is awaiting Governor Kay Ivey’s signature. 

“Trey’s law” is a bill that was pre-filed in December by State Sen. Matt Woods (R-Jasper). The legislation is aimed at ending the misuse of nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) against child sexual abuse and trafficking victims in civil settlements.

The measure is named after Trey Carlock, a 28 year old that committed suicide in 2019.

“Trey pursued justice to hold others involved accountable through civil litigation,” the bill’s sponsor State Rep. David Faulkner (R-Mountain Brook) said. “That re-traumatizing process ended with a settlement agreement that included a restrictive NDA (non-disclosure agreement) barring Trey from ever speaking about his abuse.”

The bill received broad bipartisan support with the House of Representatives passing it 98-0. It passed the Senate 28-0 earlier this week.

“We need to end the silence, expose the abusers, and protect children,” State Rep. Susan DuBose (R-Hoover) said on the House floor.

Trey’s life was marred by the abuse of NDAs that perpetuated his trauma and withheld vital truths from the public. Trey’s civil case against Kanakuk Ministries, where he — and many others — suffered abuse at the hands of director Pete Newman, ended with a restrictive NDA.

Despite a 2009 investigation that unveiled the direct perpetrator’s criminality, NDAs continued to shield other liable parties, obscuring accountability and preventing healing.

Key aspects of the Trey’s Law Bill:

– Prohibition of NDAs in cases involving sexual abuse and trafficking, ensuring that survivors can share their stories without fear of legal repercussions.
– Enhancement of transparency in civil settlements, contributing to public safety awareness and accountability.

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on X @Yaffee