In a poignant and emotional testimony before the Senate Committee on State Affairs, a survivor's family member shared the harrowing story of abuse endured by her late brother, Trey, at the hands of a serial offender associated with Kanakuk Ministries, a prominent Christian summer camp. The meeting, held on May 8, 2025, focused on the proposed legislation known as Trey's Law, aimed at reforming the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that silence victims of abuse.

The speaker, visibly moved, expressed gratitude to Senate sponsor Paxton and other lawmakers for their support of Trey's Law, which recently passed unanimously in the House with 17 cosponsors. This legislation seeks to prioritize public safety and protect children from the kind of institutional abuse that Trey experienced. The testimony highlighted the tragic reality that many victims remain voiceless due to restrictive NDAs, which often protect the perpetrators rather than the victims.

Trey's journey was marked by years of grooming and abuse, starting at the tender age of seven. Despite the overwhelming trauma he faced, he was forced to navigate the legal system under a civil statute of limitations that required him to file a case before turning 23. This pressure compounded his suffering, as he struggled to heal while dealing with the stigma surrounding his abuser, who was celebrated within the Christian community.

The speaker revealed that Trey's civil case ended with a settlement that included a restrictive NDA, further entrenching the cycle of abuse. She recounted how, even after his death by suicide in 2019, the NDA continued to silence the truth about his experiences. "I have learned more about the extent of my brother's abuse since his death than I knew in his life," she stated, emphasizing the chilling impact of these agreements on victims' ability to share their stories.

As the testimony unfolded, the committee members listened intently to the details of the NDAs, which often include clauses that prevent victims from speaking out publicly. The speaker noted that many survivors feel isolated, believing they are the only ones who have suffered similar fates. However, a recent petition calling for the release of victims from their NDAs garnered nearly 30,000 signatures, illustrating a growing movement among survivors seeking justice and recognition.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for legislative change to protect victims and ensure that their voices are heard. As the committee deliberates on Trey's Law, the emotional weight of the testimonies serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle against abuse and the importance of safeguarding the rights of those who have suffered in silence. The hope is that this legislation will pave the way for healing and justice, allowing victims to reclaim their narratives and pursue a future free from the shadows of their past.