Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1226

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to prostitution and trafficking of persons and to certain criminal and civil consequences of that conduct.

Impact

The passage of SB1226 would substantially modify state laws on prostitution and trafficking, establishing clearer legal definitions and enhanced penalties for offenses. Landlords who allow their properties to be used for illegal activities related to prostitution will gain the authority to evict tenants on an expedited basis, without adhering to the usual notice requirements. Thus, there could be significant implications for both tenants and landlords, particularly in how property management and leasing practices operate within the state.

Summary

SB1226 addresses critical issues related to prostitution and the trafficking of persons, introducing specific criminal and civil consequences for activities associated with these offenses. The bill proposes amendments to existing laws within the penal and property codes, including enhanced punishment for those involved in prostitution-related activities and the termination of tenant rights under certain circumstances. It aims to strengthen regulations surrounding the operation of massage establishments and clarify the legal responsibilities of landlords regarding unlawful activities on their properties.

Contention

Debates surrounding SB1226 are expected to revolve around the balance between enforcing stricter penalties for unlawful activities while also considering the rights of tenants and individuals involved. Critics may argue that the bill could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations by increasing the risk of homelessness for those engaged in prostitution, as well as potentially leading to wrongful evictions. Supporters, on the other hand, emphasize the necessity of stronger measures against trafficking and the protection of community standards.

Companion Bills

TX HB2552

Identical Relating to measures to address and deter certain criminal or other unlawful activity, including trafficking of persons, sexual offenses, prostitution, and activity that may constitute a public nuisance; increasing criminal penalties; creating a criminal offense.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4915

Relating to the deceptive trade practice of excluding mandatory fees or charges from an advertised, displayed, or offered price.

TX HB2128

Relating to the charging of exorbitant or excessive prices for natural gas during a declared disaster.

TX SB722

Relating to the prosecution of the offenses of trafficking of persons and compelling prostitution and to certain consequences of compelling prostitution.

TX HB1004

Relating to the prosecution of the offenses of trafficking of persons and compelling prostitution and to certain consequences of those offenses.

TX HB2324

Relating to the regulation of certain health professionals and health facilities; providing civil and administrative penalties; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4598

Relating to catalytic converters, including criminal conduct involving catalytic converters; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a fee.

TX SB224

Relating to catalytic converters, including criminal conduct involving catalytic converters; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a fee.

TX HB4

Relating to the regulation of the collection, use, processing, and treatment of consumers' personal data by certain business entities; imposing a civil penalty.

TX HB1844

Relating to the regulation of the collection, use, processing, and treatment of consumers' personal data by certain business entities; imposing a civil penalty.

TX SB1527

Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

HI SB3036

Relating To Offenses Against Public Health And Morals.

HI HB2347

Relating To Offenses Against Public Health And Morals.

CA SB303

Crimes: solicitation of prostitution of a minor: human trafficking.

HI SB2868

Relating To Prostitution.

CA AB1737

Pandering.

CA SB1204

Pandering.

AR SB427

To Amend Promoting Prostitution Offenses; To Enhance The Penalties For Promoting Prostitution In The First, Second, And Third Degree; And To Create The Offense Of Promoting Prostitution At A Business.

SC S0235

Prostitution