Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB404

Filed
11/26/14  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to prohibitions on certain employment and volunteer activity for certain sex offenders; amending provisions subject to a criminal penalty.

Impact

The enactment of HB 404 would have significant implications for existing laws regarding the employment of sex offenders. The bill clarifies that individuals who are registered due to certain convictions will not only face restrictions regarding operations of buses and amusement rides but will also be barred from supervisory roles in programs involving minors. This could lead to stricter enforcement of registration directives and a potential reduction in the types of jobs available to those registered as sex offenders, raising questions about rehabilitation and employment fairness.

Summary

House Bill 404 aims to amend the existing provisions concerning the employment and volunteer activities of individuals registered as sex offenders. This bill newly outlines specific types of employment and volunteer positions that are prohibited for those who have been convicted of certain sexual offenses against minors. The intent is to enhance public safety by limiting the opportunities for offenders to work in environments where children are present, such as schools and recreational areas.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 404 appears to be largely supportive among those advocating for public safety and child protection. Proponents argue that these measures are necessary to safeguard vulnerable populations from potential risks posed by offenders. However, there may also be concerns about the stigma and limitations imposed on individuals who have already served their sentences, particularly regarding their reintegration into society and chances for employment.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise concerning the balance between public safety and the rights of individuals who have completed their sentences. While supporters of HB 404 emphasize the importance of protecting children and creating safer environments, opponents may argue that excessive restrictions could hinder the reintegration of former offenders into the workforce. This tension reflects broader societal debates about justice, rehabilitation, and the long-term effects of labeling individuals as sex offenders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4061

Relating to prohibiting a registered sex offender in certain circumstances from going within a certain distance of the residence of the victim of the offense for which the offender is subject to registration.

TX HB3086

Relating to prohibiting sex offenders from purchasing firearms.

TX HB4881

Relating to prohibiting a sex offender from possessing a firearm.

TX SB1518

Relating to the establishment of a terrorist offender registry and to the supervision of those terrorist offenders; creating criminal offenses related to terrorism.

TX HB4968

Relating to the establishment of a terrorist offender registry and to the supervision of those terrorist offenders; creating criminal offenses related to terrorism.

TX HB3996

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB1274

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB7

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB5

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB73

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.