Bill > HB3087

This bill provides counties with the authority to create restrictions for registered sex offenders in unincorporated areas, specifically around "child safety zones" such as schools, playgrounds, day-care facilities, video arcade facilities, and other places where children commonly gather. Under the proposed law, county commissioners courts can adopt orders preventing registered sex offenders assigned to risk levels two or three from entering these child safety zones within 1,000 feet. The bill defines key terms like "child safety zone" and "registered sex offender" and provides some important exceptions: sex offenders can enter these areas for legitimate purposes like transporting children they are legally permitted to be with, going to work, or accessing their existing residence. Sex offenders who already lived within the restricted zone before the order was adopted are exempt, but only for accessing their current residence. Violations of such county orders would be classified as a Class C misdemeanor. The legislation is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and explicitly excludes churches from the definition of child safety zones. The bill aims to enhance public safety by creating additional geographical restrictions for certain registered sex offenders.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3087