Texas House Bill HB2396

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to certain registration requirements imposed on sex offenders.

Impact

The changes proposed by HB 2396 are designed to improve the oversight and management of sex offenders at the local and state level. By broadening the scope of where offenses can be prosecuted and specifying the conditions under which former offenders must verify their registration status, the bill seeks to enhance public safety and accountability. The updates also include provisions for tracking offenders who do not have a fixed address, requiring them to report their temporary locations more frequently, thus aiming to reduce the opportunities for evasion from law enforcement.

Summary

House Bill 2396 addresses the registration requirements imposed on sex offenders in the state of Texas. The bill amends existing statutes within the Code of Criminal Procedure to enhance the obligations of sex offenders regarding their residency disclosures and registration compliance. It outlines specific requirements for sex offenders, such as the need for comprehensive personal information on the registration form, including their full name, aliases, date of birth, and a complete set of fingerprints. The bill aims to instate more rigorous verification processes to effectively track sex offenders and mitigate risks to public safety.

Contention

Notably, the bill has generated discussions regarding its potential overreach and the implications for civil liberties. Critics have raised concerns that the intensified registration requirements may unnecessarily burden individuals who have already served their sentences and are attempting to reintegrate into society. Additionally, there are apprehensions related to the effectiveness of these measures in reducing recidivism rates, with some arguing that addressing underlying issues, such as rehabilitation and support, could yield better outcomes for community safety than stringent registration laws.