Texas House Bill HB2411

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/4/25

Caption

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
  • Section: New Section