Bill > HB2258

This bill, known as the Vulnerable Youth Protection Act, establishes a legal framework for private civil liability related to the social transitioning of minors in Texas. The bill defines "social transitioning" as any act by which a minor adopts a gender identity different from their biological sex, including changes in clothing, pronouns, hairstyle, or name. Under the proposed law, any person who causes or contributes to the social transitioning of a minor can be sued by the child or their parents for personal injuries or harm resulting from such actions. The bill allows for various types of damages, including nominal damages, compensatory damages, statutory damages of at least $10,000 per defendant, and punitive damages of at least $10 million if irreversible sterilization or sexual dysfunction occurs. The legislation includes broad provisions that limit potential defenses to such lawsuits, such as ignorance of the law, reliance on past court decisions, or claims of constitutional rights. The bill explicitly states that it can only be enforced through private civil actions and prohibits state officials from directly enforcing or intervening in such lawsuits. Additionally, the bill includes extensive severability provisions to ensure that if any part of the law is found unconstitutional, the remaining parts can still be enforced. The act would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not receive the required immediate effect votes.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2258