Kentucky Bans School NDAs in Child Sex Abuse Cases

New law aims to increase transparency and accountability around abuse allegations.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 8:14pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a school ID badge or security pass, the harsh flash illuminating the textured plastic surface and creating dramatic shadows, conceptually representing the transparency and accountability sought by this new legislation.A new Kentucky law aims to end the use of non-disclosure agreements that have allowed child sexual abuse cases in schools to be concealed from the public.Taylorsville Today

The Kentucky state legislature has passed a new law that prohibits schools from using non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to conceal allegations of child sexual abuse by coaches and other staff. The bill, sponsored by Republican Representative James Tipton, is intended to increase transparency and ensure that abuse cases are properly investigated and reported.

Why it matters

The use of NDAs has allowed many cases of child sexual abuse in schools to be kept secret, enabling predators to continue working with children. This new law in Kentucky is part of a growing movement to end the use of NDAs to cover up abuse and hold institutions more accountable.

The details

House Bill 102 bans Kentucky schools from requiring students, parents, or employees to sign NDAs related to allegations of child sexual abuse. The law also requires schools to report any abuse claims to law enforcement within 24 hours. Supporters say the legislation will empower victims to come forward without fear of retaliation or silencing.

  • House Bill 102 was filed by Representative James Tipton in March 2026.
  • The bill was passed by the Kentucky state legislature and signed into law in March 2026.

The players

James Tipton

A Republican member of the Kentucky House of Representatives who sponsored House Bill 102 to ban the use of NDAs in child sex abuse cases.

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What they’re saying

“I truly believe that this law will help protect our children in school.”

— James Tipton, State Representative

What’s next

The new law will go into effect immediately, requiring all Kentucky schools to update their policies and procedures around reporting allegations of child sexual abuse.

The takeaway

This legislation in Kentucky represents an important step forward in holding schools accountable and ensuring that cases of child sexual abuse are properly investigated rather than covered up through the use of non-disclosure agreements.