Bill > HB1264

This bill modifies several Texas legal statutes related to child sexual offenses by changing the definition of a "child" from under 17 years old to under 18 years old in key sections of the Penal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure. Specifically, the bill updates provisions in laws concerning indecency with a child and sexual assault, expanding protections to include 17-year-olds. The changes affect definitions of child-related offenses, community supervision conditions for offenders, and parole requirements for those convicted of crimes involving minors. Under the new provisions, offenders would be subject to additional restrictions, such as being prohibited from participating in programs involving those 17 and younger, staying away from child-gathering locations like schools and playgrounds, and attending mandatory psychological counseling for sex offenders. Importantly, these legal modifications will only apply to offenses committed on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, meaning prior offenses will be governed by the law in effect at the time they were committed.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1264