Texas Senate Bill SB741

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/8/25

Caption

Relating to human trafficking, prostitution, and child pornography and to the prosecution of sexual or assaultive offenses or the prosecution of a failure to stop or report those offenses; amending and harmonizing certain statute of limitations provisions; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

Impact

The impact of SB741 reaches deeply into state law as it revises how sexual and assaultive offenses are prosecuted. By increasing criminal penalties for offenses against minors and establishing required training for certain professions, the bill aims to ensure that adequate measures are in place to combat human trafficking. This includes significant grace periods concerning the statute of limitations depending on the nature of the crime and the age of the victim, which is designed to accommodate the complexities of these crimes and help more victims seek justice.

Summary

SB741 is a proposed legislation aimed at strengthening Texas laws against human trafficking, prostitution, and child pornography. The bill seeks to enhance the prosecution of related sexual and assaultive offenses by amending existing laws and harmonizing the statute of limitations for such crimes. One of the notable features of the bill is the introduction of a new criminal offense related to the failure to stop or report incidents of sexual or assaultive offenses against children, which reflects a push for greater accountability within communities and amongst individuals who witness such acts.

Contention

While proponents of SB741 argue that the bill strengthens protections for vulnerable populations, opponents may raise concerns about the implications of mandatory reporting requirements. Critics might worry that such mandates could lead to underreporting or misreporting out of fear or misunderstanding, placing additional burdens on individuals who may already feel vulnerable. The necessity for further resources and training to properly implement the bill's provisions could also serve as a point of debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 402. Attorney General
  • Section: 034
  • Section: 0351

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 146. Tattoo And Certain Body Piercing Studios
  • Section: New Section

Occupations Code

• Chapter 1603. Regulation Of Barbering And Cosmetology
  • Section: New Section

Penal Code

• Chapter 20. Kidnapping, Unlawful Restraint, Andsmuggling Of Persons
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 43. Public Indecency
  • Section: New Section