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SB 835

Relating to the enforceability of certain nondisclosure or confidentiality provisions with respect to an act of sexual abuse.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Carol Alvarado and 29 co-sponsors

Texas law now voids nondisclosure agreements that prevent sexual abuse victims from reporting to authorities or disclosing facts, effective September 1, 2025.

Effective on 9/1/25
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #crimes--againstpersons--sexual(i0171) #humantrafficking(s0696) #minors--crimesagainst(i0532) #prostitution(s0016) #sexualassault(s4375) #trey'slaw(po3e1)
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Bill Summary · SB 835

Legislative bill overview

SB 835 voids nondisclosure and confidentiality agreements that prevent victims of sexual abuse from reporting the abuse or cooperating with law enforcement investigations. The bill makes such provisions unenforceable and allows victims to disclose facts related to sexual abuse without legal consequences, while still protecting the abuser's identity if the victim chooses.

Why is this important

This law addresses a significant barrier to accountability: perpetrators often use confidentiality clauses to silence victims and obstruct investigations. By invalidating these agreements, the bill aims to increase reporting of sexual abuse, facilitate criminal investigations, and reduce the isolation many victims experience. It directly affects workplace settlements, institutional policies, and civil agreements where such clauses were previously enforceable.

Potential points of contention

  • Business impact: Companies may face increased liability and litigation exposure if settlement agreements they believed were binding become unenforceable, potentially affecting settlement negotiations in abuse cases.
  • Definition scope: The bill's definition of "sexual abuse" and what constitutes disclosure restrictions could create litigation over whether specific confidentiality provisions are covered.
  • Balancing privacy: Some argue perpetrators retain a privacy interest, and the bill's approach to protecting identity while requiring disclosure reporting could create practical enforcement challenges or unintended consequences.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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