Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1724

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

Caption

Relating to certain statutory changes to reflect and address same-sex marriages and parenting relationships and to the removal of provisions regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct.

Impact

The implications of SB1724 on state laws are significant. The bill seeks to update gender-specific terminology in marriage and family contexts to ensure that it is inclusive of same-sex couples. For example, existing legal frameworks that view marriages solely between a man and a woman will be revised to accept any two individuals, clarifying the legal standing of same-sex couples. This could also influence how marriage licenses are issued, custody laws are interpreted, and how certain rights are allocated within the familial structure regardless of the sexual orientation of the individuals involved.

Summary

SB1724 is a legislative proposal that aims to amend various sections of Texas law to better reflect the legal status of same-sex marriages and parenting relationships. One of the main objectives of the bill is to remove outdated provisions that classify homosexual conduct as a criminal offense, thereby aligning Texas law with federal guidelines and public sentiment regarding LGBTQ+ rights. This move signifies an important step towards recognizing the legitimacy of same-sex relationships and their associated rights under state law.

Conclusion

In summary, while SB1724 has the potential to significantly enhance legal protections for same-sex couples and their families, it is likely to encounter political and social hurdles that could delay its passage. The evolving landscape of public opinion towards LGBTQ+ rights will play a crucial role in determining the success of this legislation, making ongoing advocacy and support vital to its enactment.

Contention

Despite its progressive intent, SB1724 may face opposition from certain conservative groups and lawmakers who oppose changes to traditional definitions of marriage and family. Critics of the bill argue that it undermines the historical norm of heterosexual marriage, fearing it could lead to broader societal implications concerning family structures and moral standards. There may also be logistical concerns regarding the implementation of the bill's provisions in existing family law frameworks, as well as potential challenges in public education on the changes.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 6. Suit For Dissolution Of Marriage
    • Section: 203
  • Chapter 153. Conservatorship, Possession, And Access
    • Section: 312
    • Section: 313
    • Section: 314

Health And Safety Code

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

Penal Code

  • Chapter 21. Sexual Offenses
    • Section: 11
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Government Code

  • Chapter 24. District Courts
    • Section: 601
    • Section: 601
  • Chapter 573. Degrees Of Relationship; Nepotism Prohibitions
    • Section: New Section

Estates Code

  • Chapter 121. Survival Requirements
    • Section: New Section

Agriculture Code

  • Chapter 72. Mexican Fruit Fly Control
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section

Finance Code

  • Chapter 65. Savings Accounts
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

TX HB3918

Relating to the prohibition, prevention, and remedying of certain discrimination.

TX HB1601

Relating to the prohibition, prevention, and remedying of certain discrimination.

TX HB1663

Relating to certain statutory changes to reflect and address same-sex marriages and parenting relationships.

TX SB129

Relating to certain statutory changes to reflect and address same-sex marriages and parenting relationships and to the removal of provisions regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct.

TX HB5031

Relating to certain statutory changes to reflect and address same-sex marriages and parenting relationships and to the removal of provisions regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct.

TX SB81

Relating to certain statutory changes to reflect and address same-sex marriages and parenting relationships and to the removal of provisions regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct.

TX HB1037

Relating to certain statutory changes to reflect and address same-sex marriages and parenting relationships and to the removal of provisions regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct.

TX HB573

Relating to certain statutory changes to reflect and address same-sex marriages and parenting relationships and to the removal of provisions regarding the criminality or unacceptability of homosexual conduct.