Bill > HB1974

This bill adds a new chapter to the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code that renders certain nondisclosure or confidentiality agreements unenforceable when they prevent reporting or discussing child sexual abuse. Specifically, the bill defines "act of sexual abuse" by referencing multiple sections of the Texas Family Code and Penal Code that cover various forms of child sexual abuse, including sexual assault, indecency with a child, sexual performance by a child, human trafficking, and compelling prostitution. Any agreement provision that prohibits or limits a person's ability to notify law enforcement or regulatory agencies about child sexual abuse, or that prevents disclosure of facts surrounding such abuse (including the alleged offender's identity), will be considered void and unenforceable. The law applies retroactively to agreements entered into before, on, or after the effective date and will take effect on September 1, 2025, effectively ensuring that survivors of child sexual abuse cannot be legally silenced through confidentiality agreements.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1974