Bill > HB1012

This bill modifies the legal definition of "harmful material" in the Texas Penal Code regarding the sale, distribution, or display of such material to minors. Specifically, the bill removes the phrase "whose dominant theme taken as a whole" and eliminates the word "utterly" from the existing definition. The updated definition of harmful material now focuses on three key criteria: (1) material that appeals to a minor's prurient interest in sex, nudity, or excretion; (2) material that is patently offensive according to prevailing adult community standards for minor-appropriate content; and (3) material without redeeming social value for minors. The bill clarifies these standards without substantially changing the core legal concept. The changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date, which is set for September 1, 2025, meaning that any offenses prior to that date will be governed by the previous version of the law.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1012