What does Preamble of TREY'S Law do?

This Act aims to prohibit enforcement of contractual clauses restricting disclosure of sexual abuse of minors

What does SHORT TITLE. of TREY'S Law do?

This bill is formally titled the ``Terminating Restrictive Enforcement of Youth Settlements Law'' or ``TREY'S Law''.

What does FINDINGS AND PURPOSES. of TREY'S Law do?

This section outlines findings related to sexual abuse of minors, particularly concerning the use of nondisclosure and confidentiality agreements. Congress finds that such agreements often impede reporting to law enforcement, child protection authorities, and other entities, thereby frustrating the enforcement of federal law. The text asserts Congress has authority under the Necessary and Proper Clause to prevent private agreements from obstructing federal law enforcement related to protecting minors. It also finds that survivors of child sexual abuse have constitutional rights, including the right to report crimes and seek redress through the courts. The section states that when state courts enforce these agreements, it constitutes state action under the 14th Amendment. The purpose of the Act is to prevent state courts and governmental authorities from enforcing nondisclosure agreements that suppress disclosure of sexual abuse of minors. The Act aims to ensure private agreements are not used to obstruct the investigation or prosecution of federal crimes involving the sexual abuse or trafficking of minors. The Act intends to preserve access to courts and the right to petition the government and ensure survivors can disclose abuse freely.

What does DEFINITIONS. of TREY'S Law do?

This section defines key terms used within the Act. A 'minor person' is defined as an individual under 18 years of age. A 'nondisclosure clause' is a provision in a contract that restricts disclosure of covered information. “Sexual abuse against a minor person” includes offenses under Chapter 110 of Title 18, sex trafficking under Section 1591 of Title 18, or any sexual act involving a minor that constitutes a criminal offense under federal or state law.

What does NONDISCLOSURE AGREEMENTS VOID AND UNENFORCEABLE. of TREY'S Law do?

This section declares nondisclosure clauses void and unenforceable to the extent they prohibit a victim or alleged victim of sexual abuse against a minor from disclosing the abuse or related facts. It also voids such clauses if they prevent others from disclosing facts related to the abuse in support of the victim's right to disclose. The section allows individuals, including victims, to enter into contracts restricting the disclosure of information by another party, such as a settlement amount, as long as it doesn't prevent disclosures protected under subsection (a).

What does RETROACTIVE APPLICATION. of TREY'S Law do?

This Act applies retroactively to nondisclosure clauses in contracts or agreements entered into before, on, or after the date of enactment. No person may enforce or attempt to enforce nondisclosure clauses described in section 4(a), regardless of when the contract was entered into. This Act preempts state laws that permit the enforcement of provisions prohibited by this Act. States and localities may enact legislation consistent with this Act or providing greater protection to victims of sexual abuse against a minor than this Act provides.

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TREY'S Law

Last updated: 5/20/2026 · Introduced: 3/3/2026

Author: Ted Cruz (R-TX)

TL;DR (AI)

TREY'S Law declares nondisclosure clauses void and unenforceable if they prevent victims or alleged victims of sexual abuse against a minor from disclosing the abuse or related facts.
The bill applies retroactively, preventing the enforcement of existing nondisclosure clauses that restrict such disclosures, regardless of when the contract was signed.
This Act preempts state laws that allow the enforcement of these restrictive nondisclosure clauses, while allowing states to enact more protective legislation for victims.

119th Congresspassed senateHR. 8571(In Committee)Official page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 4 more.

6 sections

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