Relating to the enforceability of certain nondisclosure or confidentiality provisions with respect to an act of sexual abuse committed against a child.
Impact
The anticipated impact of HB 2411 is profound, particularly in its potential to reform legal recourse available to child abuse victims. By rendering certain nondisclosure agreements unenforceable, the bill would empower victims to speak out and access necessary support without the fear of legal repercussions tied to confidentiality. Lawmakers believe that this change will encourage more victims to come forward and report incidents, thereby enhancing overall child safety and accountability for offenders.
Summary
House Bill 2411 seeks to establish clear language regarding the enforceability of nondisclosure or confidentiality agreements in cases of sexual abuse committed against children. The bill aims to ensure that such provisions cannot be used to shield offenders from accountability or to silence victims following incidents of abuse. Advocates argue that this legislation will significantly aid survivors in seeking justice and that it will strengthen protections for minors by making it more challenging for abusers to avoid legal repercussions through confidentiality clauses.
Contention
Notably, discussions around HB 2411 may highlight a spectrum of opinions, particularly concerning the balance between individual privacy rights and the obligation to protect children. Critics might voice concerns regarding the implications of deeming all confidentiality agreements unenforceable, fearing that such a broad approach could inadvertently infringe on legitimate privacy concerns in other contexts. Thus, there could be significant debate as stakeholders consider how to best craft the legislation to provide maximum protection without compromising other important legal principles.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Civil Practice And Remedies Code
Chapter 129. Age Of Majority
Section: New Section
Family Code
Chapter 1. General Provisions
Section: New Section
Penal Code
Chapter 21. Sexual Offenses
Section: 11
Chapter 22. Assaultive Offenses
Section: New Section
Chapter 43. Public Indecency
Section: 25
Section: 05
Chapter 20. Kidnapping, Unlawful Restraint, Andsmuggling Of Persons
Relating to the prosecution of and punishment for the criminal offense of hindering the investigation or prosecution of certain sexual offenses committed against a child; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to the rights of victims of sexual assault and to certain procedures and reimbursements occurring with respect to a sexual assault or other sex offense.
Relating to the rights of victims of sexual assault and to certain procedures and reimbursements occurring with respect to a sexual assault or other sex offense.
Relating to certain suits for personal injury that arise as a result of conduct that violates certain Penal Code provisions concerning sexual offenses against a child but that are filed against certain persons who did not commit the conduct that violated those Penal Code provisions.
Relating to certain suits for personal injury that arise as a result of conduct that violates certain Penal Code provisions concerning sexual offenses against a child but that are filed against certain persons who did not commit the conduct that violated those Penal Code provisions.
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.
Relating to the admissibility of evidence of certain extraneous offenses or acts in the prosecution of sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault or an attempt or conspiracy to commit sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault.