Bill > SB332

This bill amends the Texas Penal Code to expand the legal definition of sexual assault without consent by adding two new circumstances: (1) when the actor knows the victim is intoxicated to the point of being unable to understand or comprehend the sexual act, and (2) when the actor knows the victim has withdrawn consent during the act and continues anyway. The bill specifically modifies Section 22.011(b), which previously outlined various situations considered non-consensual sexual assault, such as using physical force, threats, exploiting power dynamics, or taking advantage of a person's mental or physical incapacity. The changes broaden protections for victims by explicitly recognizing intoxication and withdrawn consent as conditions that invalidate consent. The amendment will apply only to offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025, ensuring that previous cases are governed by the law in effect at the time of the offense. This legislative update aims to provide clearer legal standards for prosecuting sexual assault cases and recognizing more nuanced forms of non-consensual sexual interaction.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB332