Sen. Sheehan Announces Intention to Re-introduce NDA Bill

Senator Sheehan for State Senate
August 20, 2018
Senator James C. Sheehan

Senator Sheehan Announces Intention to Re-introduce Bill to Prevent the Use of Non-disclosure Agreements to Conceal Charges of Sexual Assault, Harassment

Narragansett– Against a backdrop of the use non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to silence possible political critics and the recent use of non-disclosure agreements to conceal charges of sexual assault, Sen. James C. Sheehan (D-Dist. 36, Narragansett & North Kingstown) announced that, if re-elected, he would reintroduce legislation to prevent the use of non-disclosure agreements to cover-up sexual assault and sexual harassment.

Senator Sheehan stated, “In revelations brought to light by the #MeToo Movement, we have seen NDAs being used to protect the reputation of companies and persons of power in instances where sexual harassment and assault have been credibly alleged, shielding perpetrators from accountability and consequences for their actions.”

Senator Sheehan’s 2018 bill (S 2687) specifically sought to make any provision within a legal settlement that prohibits the reporting of basic information related to charges of sexual assault, sexual harassment, retaliation for reporting sexual harassment, and stalking nonbinding on the victim.

“NDAs silence victims and prevent them from discussing abuse -- even with their own families. Further, NDAs permit a cycle of abuse by sexual predators who may continue to offend by concealing any wrong-doing, putting untold others at risk of being harmed,” said Senator Sheehan. “I find it unconscionable and unjust as a matter of public policy to permit any perpetrators of sexual harassment and assault to hide behind a veil of secrecy of nondisclosure agreements.”

If enacted, Rhode Island would join states such as California, Pennsylvania, New York, and Washington in with similar legislation.