Summary
Stops the use of non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements to hide the sexual abuse of children, allowing victims and others to speak out without legal penalty.
What problem does this solve?
Nondisclosure and confidentiality agreements have been used to silence victims of child sexual abuse, allowing abusers to avoid consequences and harm others. This law voids those agreements, making it possible to report abuse and hold abusers accountable.
Who does this affect?
- Victims of child sexual abuse
- Organizations handling abuse claims
- Legal professionals
What does this bill do?
Voids nondisclosure clauses for child abuse
Makes any part of an agreement void if it stops a victim or another person from talking about the sexual abuse of a person under 18.
Applies to past and future agreements
Applies to all nondisclosure agreements, no matter when they were signed, including those made before this law was passed.
Allows confidentiality for settlement amounts
Permits agreements to keep certain details private, like the amount of money in a settlement, as long as it does not hide the facts of the abuse.
Overrides weaker state laws
Supersedes any state law that allows for the enforcement of these nondisclosure clauses but allows states to create even stronger protections for victims.
What is the real world impact?
•
Prevents abusers from hiding crimes
Stops abusers and institutions from using legal contracts, like settlement agreements, to silence victims. This helps ensure that criminal behavior can be reported to law enforcement and the public, preventing future abuse.
When does this start?
Takes effect as soon as it is signed into law and applies to all past and future agreements.