Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1136

Filed
12/29/22  
Out of House Committee
4/27/23  
Voted on by House
5/9/23  
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the period for which a person is required to register as a sex offender based on the offense of compelling prostitution.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1136 will significantly alter the landscape of sex offender registration in Texas. By categorizing compelling prostitution as an offense requiring lifetime registration, the bill aims to ensure that perpetrators face stringent consequences for their actions. This change is viewed as necessary in response to the growing recognition of the trauma and long-lasting impact that such crimes have on victims. It highlights a commitment to protecting vulnerable populations from exploitation and reinforcing the severity of offenses associated with human trafficking.

Summary

House Bill 1136 aims to amend the Penal Code by extending the registration period required for individuals convicted of compelling prostitution from ten years to a lifetime registration on the sex offender registry. This bill specifically addresses adults convicted of compelling prostitution of either children or adults, recognizing the severe implications of such offenses which often involve coercion or threats against victims. The bill seeks to enhance protections for victims who may otherwise be marginalized by existing laws that permit shorter registration periods for these serious offenses.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1136 appears to be largely supportive among legislators and advocacy groups that focus on victims’ rights and human trafficking prevention. During discussions in the Criminal Justice committee, lawmakers acknowledged the difficult nature of the topic but emphasized the importance of strict measures to deter such crimes. While the bill has garnered widespread bipartisan support, some discussions hinted at concerns regarding the balance of punitive measures versus rehabilitation for offenders.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1136 include discussions on the broader implications of lifetime registration on reintegration efforts for offenders, as well as the adequacy of support services for victims in the aftermath of such crimes. Critics might argue that while protecting victims is paramount, the punitive measures need to be coupled with effective rehabilitation strategies for offenders. The bill's passage through the House shows strong legislative will, but as it addresses sensitive societal issues, it may face scrutiny on how its enforcement will evolve post-implementation.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Code Of Criminal Procedure

  • Chapter 62. Sex Offender Registration Program
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB722

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

TX HB462

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 HB491

Relating to requiring registration as a sex offender of certain defendants convicted of the offense of continuous trafficking of persons.

TX SB1433

Relating to requiring registration as a sex offender of certain defendants convicted of the offense of continuous trafficking of persons.

TX HB3031

Relating to sex offender registration for certain offenses involving a child victim.

TX SB811

Relating to sex offender registration and a prohibition on certain registered sex offenders from being in a motor vehicle with a minor who is not a family member.

TX HB5401

Relating to the applicability of sex offender registration requirements to certain felonies based on the offense initially charged in the case.

TX SB2921

Relating to the applicability of sex offender registration requirements to the offense of indecent assault.

TX SB1709

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of certain sexual offenses and to exempting certain persons from the duty to register as a sex offender in this state.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.