Texas House Bill HB2319

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the prosecution of the offense of prostitution; increasing a criminal penalty.

Impact

The legislation is poised to have a significant impact on state laws relating to the prosecution of prostitution, particularly by categorizing offenses more severely based on prior law violations and the circumstances under which they occur. Any solicitation involving individuals under 18 years of age is particularly emphasized, with strict penalty enhancements in place. This could shift the approach taken by law enforcement and judicial systems in dealing with prostitution, creating a heavier hand against those who solicit minors.

Summary

House Bill 2319 addresses the prosecution of prostitution offenses in Texas by amending existing laws to increase criminal penalties associated with these offenses. The bill modifies the language of the Penal Code to tighten the definitions and implications surrounding solicitation for sexual conduct. Specifically, it establishes stricter classifications of misdemeanors and felonies based on the number of prior convictions for offenses under this section, elevating the gravity of the crime with increased penalties designed to reflect repeat offenders and the age of those solicited.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2319 appears to be predominantly supportive among legislators advocating for stricter controls on prostitution, seeing it as a necessary measure to combat trafficking and protect vulnerable populations. However, there may also be concerns regarding the potential for harsh consequences on individuals caught in the sex trade who may need support rather than penalization, indicating a possible divide between those focused on enforcement and those advocating for rehabilitation.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB2319 include the balance between enforcement and social support for individuals involved in prostitution. Critics may argue that tougher penalties could exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals engaged in this conduct, particularly if they are victims of trafficking or coercion. The introduction of a first offender prostitution prevention program within the bill recognizes the intricacies of prostitution offenses but also raises questions about the effectiveness and scope of such rehabilitation efforts in conjunction with stricter penalties.