Progress Update: Missouri HB709

Missouri House Advances HB 709 ("Trey’s Law") to Final Vote

On April 16, 2025, the Missouri House of Representatives advanced House Bill 709, known as “Trey’s Law,” by ordering it perfected and printed. This legislative milestone moves the bill closer to becoming law, with a final House vote anticipated soon.​

What Is HB 709?

HB 709 seeks to make nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) unenforceable in civil cases involving child sexual abuse. The bill aims to prevent the use of NDAs to silence survivors and shield perpetrators from accountability. It was introduced by Rep. Brian Seitz (R-Branson) and is co-sponsored by Rep. Raychel Proudie (D-Ferguson), reflecting bipartisan support.​

The Story Behind “Trey’s Law”

The legislation is named after Trey Carlock, a survivor of abuse at Kanakuk Kamps in Missouri. Carlock died by suicide in 2019, and his family later revealed that he had been bound by an NDA that prevented him from speaking about his experience. His story has become a catalyst for change, highlighting the need to protect survivors' rights to share their experiences.​

What Does “Perfection” Mean?

In Missouri's legislative process, "perfection" refers to the stage where a bill is reviewed, possibly amended, and approved in its final form before a third reading. The perfection of HB 709 indicates that it has passed this critical stage and is now ready for a final vote in the House.​

What’s Next?

HB 709 is scheduled for its third reading and final vote in the House on April 22, 2025. If it passes, the bill will move to the Missouri Senate for consideration. Should both chambers approve the bill, it will be sent to Governor Mike Kehoe for signing into law.​

HB 709 is scheduled for its third reading and final vote in the House on April 22, 2025. If it passes, the bill will move to the Missouri Senate for consideration. Should both chambers approve the bill, it will be sent to Governor Mike Kehoe for signing into law.​

Why It Matters

The advancement of HB 709 represents a significant step toward ensuring that survivors of child sexual abuse are not legally silenced. By addressing the misuse of NDAs in such cases, the bill aims to promote transparency, accountability, and healing for survivors.​

For those interested in following the bill's progress, the Missouri House provides live and archived video of legislative sessions. The April 16 session on HB 709 can be viewed here: