TX
Texas Senate Bill SB1325

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1325

Filed
2/28/23  
Out of Senate Committee
4/5/23  
Voted on by Senate
4/12/23  
Out of House Committee
4/21/23  
Voted on by House
4/28/23  
Governor Action
5/13/23  

Caption

Relating to the notice given to certain victims of family violence, stalking, harassment, or terroristic threat.

Impact

The implementation of SB 1325 is expected to significantly impact state laws related to victim assistance and protection. By mandating that victims receive essential information at crucial moments, such as interactions with law enforcement or medical professionals, the Act aims to empower individuals facing violence and harassment. The updated provisions will necessitate changes in the training and protocols for peace officers, campus security, and healthcare providers, ensuring they contribute actively to the protection and support of victims in Texas.

Summary

Senate Bill 1325, also known as the Natalia Cox Act, introduces provisions to enhance the notification processes for victims of family violence, stalking, harassment, or terroristic threats. The Act directs the Health and Human Services Commission to create a written notice to be provided to these victims, ensuring they are informed about their legal rights, local resources, and available support services. This legislation emphasizes the importance of communication and accessibility of information for victims in distressing situations, promoting their ability to seek help effectively.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB 1325 is positive, with support coming from victims' advocates, lawmakers, and community organizations. Stakeholders have expressed optimism that the enhanced notice process will lead to better outcomes for victims, enabling them to make informed decisions about their safety and legal rights. However, some discussions reflect concerns regarding the practical implementation of these notifications and whether all victims will have equal access to the resources provided, particularly in underserved communities.

Contention

Despite the generally supportive environment, there are notable points of contention regarding the bill's effectiveness and potential unintended consequences. Critics have raised concerns about the practicality of ensuring that notices are given consistently, especially under high-pressure situations faced by law enforcement and healthcare workers. Additionally, there is apprehension about whether the resources and support services listed in the notices will be sufficient and accessible for all victims, particularly for those from marginalized backgrounds. These discussions highlight the ongoing need for adequate funding and training to improve responses to family violence and related crimes.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Human Resources Code

  • Chapter 51. Family Violence Centers
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Code Of Criminal Procedure

  • Chapter 2. General Duties Of Officers
    • Section: 1398
    • Section: 1398
    • Section: 1398
    • Section: 1398
  • Chapter 5. Family Violence Prevention
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Education Code

  • Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
    • Section: 2825
    • Section: 2825
    • Section: 2825
    • Section: 2825
    • Section: 2825

Family Code

  • Chapter 91. Reporting Family Violence
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB2229

Identical Relating to the notice given to certain victims of family violence, stalking, harassment, or terroristic threat.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2229

Relating to the notice given to certain victims of family violence, stalking, harassment, or terroristic threat.

TX SB1047

Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the notice provided by peace officers to victims of family violence, stalking, harassment, or terroristic threat.

TX SB256

Relating to the confidentiality of home address information of certain victims of family violence, sexual assault or abuse, stalking, or trafficking of persons.

TX HB2222

Relating to the confidentiality of home address information of certain victims of family violence, sexual assault or abuse, stalking, or trafficking of persons.

TX HB421

Relating to the notice provided by peace officers to adult victims of family violence.

TX HB1796

Relating to family violence center services for victims of family violence.

TX SB1841

Relating to family violence center services for victims of family violence.

TX AB1493

Tenancy: victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, or elder abuse.

TX HB16

Relating to sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking at public and private postsecondary educational institutions.

TX S1518

Provides rental and lease protections for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

Similar Bills

TX SB1900

Relating to foreign terrorist organizations, including the compilation of information regarding, certain civil actions brought against, and the prosecution of certain organized crime offenses involving a foreign terrorist organization and of sedition.

TX HB2229

Relating to the notice given to certain victims of family violence, stalking, harassment, or terroristic threat.

TX SB1427

Relating to certain criminal conduct and organizations that threaten the security of this state and its residents and borders; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB3499

Relating to foreign terrorist organizations, including the acquisition of title to real property by, the compilation of information regarding, certain civil actions brought against, and the prosecution of certain organized crime offenses involving a foreign terrorist organization.