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Bill

HR 8571

TREY'S Law

119th Congress Introduced by Robert Aderholt and 10 co-sponsors

Prohibits enforcement of contractual clauses that silence or restrict reporting of minor sexual abuse, ensuring disclosures aren’t penalized.

Introduced in House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 8571

Summary of HR 8571 (119th Congress)

Title

To prohibit the enforcement of certain contractual clauses that restrict disclosure of sexual abuse of minors, and for other purposes.

Purpose and intent

  • The bill seeks to prevent the enforcement of contractual provisions that silence or restrict reporting, disclosure, or discussion of sexual abuse of minors.
  • Its overarching aim is to remove barriers created by nondisclosure, confidentiality, or other contractual clauses that impede reporting, accountability, and safeguarding minors.

Key provisions and changes

  • Prohibition on enforcement: The bill would bar courts and other enforcement bodies from giving effect to contractual clauses that prevent, restrict, or penalize disclosure of information related to sexual abuse of minors.
  • Scope of disclosure: Focuses specifically on sexual abuse of minors; aims to ensure victims, witnesses, or others can disclose information without facing contractual penalties.
  • Remedies and enforcement mechanisms: While the exact text is not provided here, such bills typically authorize courts to refuse to enforce prohibited clauses, allow damages or civil penalties for enforcement violations, and empower affected individuals to seek relief.
  • Additional purposes: The bill may include miscellaneous provisions to support victims’ rights, cooperation with investigators, and measures to deter confidentiality agreements in cases involving minor sexual abuse (exact sections not provided in the summary).

Who would be affected

  • Individuals who are parties to contracts containing confidentiality, nondisclosure, or other restrictive clauses related to sexual abuse of minors.
  • Potentially witnesses, victims, or whistleblowers who might be deterred by such clauses from reporting abuse.
  • Businesses, institutions, and organizations that include such clauses in agreements (e.g., settlements, employment contracts, or compliance-related covenants).
  • The judiciary and contract law framework, which would be required to refuse enforcement of prohibited clauses and apply appropriate remedies.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduction: The bill was introduced in the House.
  • Referral: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary on April 29, 2026.
  • Sponsorship: Co-sponsors include Brandon Gill, Wesley Hunt, Keith Self, Lance Gooden, Nancy Mace, and Julie Johnson.
  • Next steps (typical for similar bills): Committee review, potential hearings, amendments, and votes in committee; floor consideration by the full House; potential further action in the Senate. Specific timelines depend on House schedule and committee actions.

Additional notes

  • The summary does not provide specific statutory text, definitions, or precise enforcement mechanisms; the provided outline reflects typical structures for bills targeting nondisclosure clauses in cases involving minor sexual abuse.
  • For a complete understanding, the bill’s text, any fiscal impact statements, and committee reports would be needed.

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

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