Bill > HB2430

This bill enhances restrictions on registered sex offenders by introducing new residence, loitering, and Halloween-related prohibitions. Specifically, the bill mandates that sex offenders cannot reside within 2,000 feet of locations where children commonly gather, such as schools, playgrounds, youth centers, public swimming pools, video arcades, movie theaters, parks, recreational facilities, libraries, athletic fields, and various trails. Additionally, sex offenders are prohibited from loitering within 500 feet of these locations for more than 10 minutes without a lawful purpose. On Halloween, registered sex offenders are further restricted from leaving exterior lights on at their residence between 5 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. and are forbidden from distributing Halloween treats or candy to children. Violations of these new provisions are classified as Class B misdemeanors, which can be elevated to Class A misdemeanors for repeat offenders. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and applies to sex offenders subject to registration based on convictions occurring on or after that date. Local law enforcement authorities are required to inform registered sex offenders about these new prohibitions when they verify their registration.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2430