Bill > SB2101

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for managing sexually explicit materials in municipal public libraries in Texas, focusing on preventing minors' access to such content. The legislation defines key terms like "sexually explicit material" (any communication describing sexual conduct) and "minor" (under 18 years old), and requires libraries to implement strict age verification measures to prevent minors from accessing sexually explicit materials in both physical and electronic collections. Municipal public libraries must annually review their collections, particularly in sections designated for children and teens, to ensure no sexually explicit materials are present, and must develop a process for responding to public petitions about potentially inappropriate materials within ten days. If a library is found to be in violation, it can face significant penalties, including potential loss of state and local funding and a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation, with the Texas State Library and Archives Commission responsible for monitoring compliance and the Attorney General empowered to bring enforcement actions. The bill provides a timeline for implementation, with guidelines to be adopted by January 1, 2026, and library reviews to be conducted by January 1, 2027, with the Act taking effect on September 1, 2025. Notably, the bill explicitly exempts religious materials from these restrictions.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2101