Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2113

Filed

1/27/25

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the creation of the criminal offense of hindering the investigation or prosecution of certain sexual offenses committed against a child.

Impact

If enacted, HB2113 is expected to bolster child protection laws in Texas by emphasizing the importance of reporting sexual offenses against children. It creates a deterrent for individuals who may otherwise remain passive in situations where intervention could prevent further harm. The bill elucidates responsibilities for individuals aged 17 and over and categorizes the offense as a felony, which signals the state's commitment to addressing child exploitation comprehensively.

Summary

House Bill 2113 introduces a criminal offense for individuals who impede the investigation or prosecution of certain sexual crimes against children. The bill specifically targets those who, knowingly or with intent, conceal evidence, mislead authorities, or fail to report such offenses. By amending Section 38.17 of the Penal Code, it establishes a clear legal framework for prosecuting those who hinder the legal process relating to serious offenses targeting minors, such as sexual assault and trafficking.

Contention

There may be concerns regarding the specifics of how the bill defines 'hindering' given the potential for subjective interpretation. Opponents might argue that the broadness of terms like 'hinder' could lead to unjust prosecutions for individuals who fear legal repercussions when faced with complex situations surrounding child abuse cases. Additionally, there may be discussions about the effectiveness of such legislation in actually protecting children versus fostering an environment of fear among potential witnesses.

Notable_points

HB2113 includes strict confidentiality provisions to protect the identities of both victims and those accused until charges are formally made. This is aimed at balancing the need for prosecution with the rights of individuals presumed innocent until proven guilty. The bill's effective date is set for September 1, 2025, which allows for preparation for its implementation within law enforcement and child protection agencies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1778

Relating to human trafficking, prostitution, and child pornography and to the prosecution of sexual or assaultive offenses or the prosecution of a failure to stop or report those offenses; amending and harmonizing certain statute of limitations provisions; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX SB741

TX HB1422

Relating to the rights of victims of sexual assault and other sex offenses, the offense of continuous sexual abuse, and the prosecution, punishment, and collateral consequences of certain sex offenses; creating a criminal offense; increasing criminal penalties; changing the eligibility for community supervision, mandatory supervision, and parole for persons convicted of certain sex offenses.

TX SB956

Relating to requiring the denial of bail to a person accused of committing certain trafficking or sexual offenses against a child while released on bail for committing a similar offense.

TX SB1610

Relating to sexually violent predators, to the Texas Civil Commitment Office, and to the prosecution of the offense of harassment by sexually violent predators and other persons confined in certain facilities; amending certain sex offender registration requirements; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB369

Relative to misdemeanor sexual assault prosecutions and relative to the duty to report for sexual offenders and offenders against children.

TX HB4342

Relating to the admissibility of certain hearsay statements in the prosecution of certain sexual or assaultive offenses committed against a child or person with a disability.

TX SB1621

Relating to prosecution and punishment of certain criminal offenses prohibiting sexually explicit visual material involving depictions of children, computer-generated children, or other persons; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.