Bill > SB1587

This bill addresses the enforceability of nondisclosure or confidentiality agreements in cases of child sexual abuse by rendering any provisions void that attempt to prevent reporting or discussing such abuse. Specifically, the bill defines "act of sexual abuse" to include various serious sexual offenses against children under 17, such as indecency with a child, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, sexual performance by a child, human trafficking, and compelling prostitution. Any agreement (including employment, settlement, or other contracts) that seeks to prohibit or limit a person's ability to notify law enforcement or regulatory agencies about a child sexual abuse incident, or that prevents disclosure of facts surrounding such abuse, will be considered unenforceable. The legislation applies retroactively to agreements entered into before, on, or after the effective date, which is set for September 1, 2025. By passing this bill, Texas aims to ensure that victims and witnesses can freely report and discuss instances of child sexual abuse without fear of legal repercussions from restrictive confidentiality clauses.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1587