Bill > HB1401

This bill amends the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure to add the offense of "improper relationship between educator and student" to the list of reportable convictions or adjudications that require sex offender registration. Specifically, the bill modifies Article 62.001(5) to include Section 21.12 of the Penal Code (Improper relationship between educator and student) among the offenses that trigger mandatory sex offender registration. The bill includes a standard provision clarifying that the legal change only applies to offenses committed on or after the effective date (September 1, 2025), meaning that for offenses committed before this date, the previous law will still govern. This modification ensures that educators who engage in inappropriate sexual relationships with students will be required to register as sex offenders, which can include providing personal information to local law enforcement, restrictions on residence and employment, and being listed on public sex offender registries. The change aims to enhance protections for students and hold educators accountable for sexual misconduct.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1401