Texas House Bill HB707

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the prosecution of and punishment for the offense of sexual assault; enhancing a criminal penalty.

Impact

The modifications proposed in HB 707 are intended to clarify the legal frameworks surrounding sexual assault, particularly focusing on situations that can result in more severe penalties. By stating that certain offenses will now carry a felony of the first degree when specific prohibitions exist, the bill emphasizes the legislature's stance on protecting vulnerable individuals, especially children. This change is crucial in reinforcing the seriousness with which sexual offenses are treated under Texas law.

Summary

House Bill 707 seeks to amend the Penal Code related to the prosecution and punishment of sexual assault offenses. The bill aims to enhance criminal penalties for certain sexual offenses, particularly those involving minors. It modifies the provisions for affirmative defenses available to defendants accused of sexual assault, specifically in cases where the accused is not more than three years older than the victim. This legislation reflects an effort to address the complexities of prosecuting sexual offenses and the nuances involved when both participants are close in age.

Contention

However, there are potential points of contention surrounding the bill. Critics may argue that the amendments to affirmative defenses could result in unjust outcomes for young defendants accused of offenses where both parties are close in age. This aspect could be seen as overly punitive, potentially criminalizing consensual interactions among teenagers while exacerbating issues concerning the legal definitions of consent. The balance between safeguarding minors and ensuring equitable treatment of accused individuals is a critical debate that may arise during discussions surrounding HB 707.