Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2575

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

Caption

Relating to certain requirements imposed on a sex offender who enters the premises of a school.

Impact

By enacting HB 2575, the bill reflects a tightening of regulations surrounding sex offender registrations and their movements, specifically when it comes to interactions with vulnerable populations such as school children. It adds a layer of oversight and community awareness regarding the presence of sex offenders near school environments. This action may prevent potential incidents of reoffending and aims to provide peace of mind to parents and school staff concerning the safety measures in place.

Summary

House Bill 2575 addresses the requirements imposed on sex offenders who enter the premises of schools. The bill mandates that registered sex offenders notify the administrative office of a school upon entering the premises during standard operational hours. This notification must include the individual's registration status. The bill is aimed at enhancing school safety by ensuring that educational institutions are aware of any registered offenders on their grounds, allowing them to manage the situation appropriately, possibly with the provision of a chaperon for the offender while on school premises.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 2575 is one of support for increased safety measures in educational settings. Many legislators and community members view the bill as a proactive approach to safeguarding students and reinforcing the responsibilities of sex offenders. However, there may also be concerns regarding stigma and the rights of offenders, as this bill further delineates their movements and actions in public spaces, bringing up a debate about balancing community safety with rehabilitation efforts for offenders.

Contention

Some points of contention arise from the implications of the law for registered offenders, particularly regarding its enforcement and the potential for unintended consequences, such as ostracization. Critics may argue that while the bill aims to protect children and community members, it could further complicate the reintegration of sex offenders into society. The bill does not make exceptions for offenders who may be visiting the school for legitimate reasons, leading to discussions about the balance between public safety and ensuring that individuals can fulfill their rights and obligations without undue burden.

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 SB1179

Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4886

Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB5202

Relating to a central database containing information about offenders who have committed certain violent offenses.

TX HB2454

Relating to the unlawful acquisition of certain weapons; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB4

Relating to prohibitions on the illegal entry into or illegal presence in this state by a person who is an alien, the enforcement of those prohibitions and certain related orders, including immunity from liability and indemnification for enforcement actions, and authorizing or requiring under certain circumstances the removal of persons who violate those prohibitions; creating criminal offenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.