Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB190

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

Caption

Relating to the repeal of statutes regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct and to the recognition of certain same-sex relationship statuses.

Impact

If enacted, SB190 would directly amend the existing laws that currently define specific sexual conduct as unacceptable and criminal. This change would modernize Texas law to align with broader societal shifts towards acceptance and recognition of diverse relationship statuses. The bill aims to enhance the rights of same-sex couples, allowing for greater equality under the law and potentially providing more access to family-related legal protections and benefits that have been previously denied.

Summary

SB190 proposes the repeal of several statutes that classify homosexual conduct as criminal and unaccepted within Texas law. Specifically, it targets sections of the Family Code, Government Code, and Penal Code that have historically been used to marginalize same-sex relationships. The bill's introduction signifies a significant shift toward recognizing and legitimizing same-sex relationships by removing legal barriers that have contributed to discrimination and stigma against the LGBTQ community.

Conclusion

Overall, SB190 represents a pivotal moment in Texas legislative efforts to address inequalities faced by the LGBTQ community. By repealing discriminatory laws and ambiguities in existing statutes, the bill could set a precedent for further legal reforms aimed at ensuring equal treatment and protection for all citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation.

Contention

The bill is likely to face contention primarily from conservative factions who may argue that the repeal of these statutes undermines traditional values and family structures. Supporters of the bill, on the other hand, argue that it is a necessary step towards equality and justice for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation. Debates around this legislation may center on the balance between state law and personal liberties, as well as the role of outdated statutes in perpetuating discrimination.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

  • Chapter 2. The Marriage Relationship
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 3. Marital Property Rights And Liabilities
    • Section: 401
  • Chapter 6. Suit For Dissolution Of Marriage
    • Section: 204

Government Code

  • Chapter 810. Miscellaneous Provisions
    • Section: New Section

Penal Code

  • Chapter 21. Sexual Offenses
    • Section: New Section

Health And Safety Code

  • Chapter 85. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome And Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
    • Section: 007
  • Chapter 163. Education Program About Sexual Conduct And Substance Abuse
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.