Texas House Bill HB2153

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/1/09
• Voted on by House: 5/12/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/23/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/26/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 6/1/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to certain registration requirements imposed on sex offenders.

Impact

The ramifications of HB 2153 are significant as they amend the Code of Criminal Procedure with respect to the obligations of individuals who are required to register as sex offenders. This legislation allows authorities to prosecute failure to comply with registration in various counties where the offender may reside or be found, potentially leading to a streamlined enforcement mechanism. By expanding the locations where violations can be prosecuted, the bill aims to increase accountability and reduce potential loopholes that offenders might exploit.

Summary

House Bill 2153 focuses on amending certain registration requirements imposed on sex offenders in Texas. The bill seeks to enhance the regulatory framework pertaining to sex offender registration by modifying existing provisions. Notably, the bill proposes a more rigorous registration process, including specific details that offenders must provide, such as physical descriptors and previous incarceration information. This increased level of detail is intended to improve law enforcement's ability to monitor registered individuals and ensure compliance with registration mandates.

Contention

However, the bill has sparked discussions around its implications for personal privacy and the burdens it could impose on individuals required to register. Critics of the bill may argue that the stringent requirements could lead to difficulties in compliance, particularly for those without stable housing. Furthermore, the necessity for frequent reporting, particularly for individuals who do not have a fixed residence, raises concerns about practical enforceability and the potential for unfair penalties against those struggling with homelessness or housing instability. Such issues may lead to a broader debate about the balance between public safety and the rights of those labeled as sex offenders.