Texas House Bill HB2956

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/18/25

Caption

Relating to a central database containing information about certain persons who have been convicted of or received a grant of deferred adjudication community supervision for certain offenses involving family violence and related notice requirements; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

The bill will have significant implications for how family violence offenders are monitored and the degree of information available to the public. Specifically, it stipulates that individuals convicted of certain offenses must register for a period of ten years following their last conviction. This data will be accessible to the public, enhancing awareness and potentially improving community safety. Additionally, the act lays down penalties for non-compliance with registration requirements, reclassifying such failures as a Class C misdemeanor.

Summary

House Bill 2956 introduces the establishment of a centralized database to maintain information about individuals convicted of or granted deferred adjudication community supervision for offenses involving family violence. This legislation is aimed at enhancing public safety by ensuring that law enforcement authorities have easy access to crucial information regarding offenders who may pose a risk to the community. The bill outlines specific definitions related to family violence offenses and details the responsibilities of the Department of Public Safety in maintaining this database.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights. The requirement for public registration raises concerns among privacy advocates about the implications for those who have served their sentences. Furthermore, the bill outlines a notification system which mandates that local law enforcement provide public notice of offenders' registration, which could lead to stigmatization and potential backlash against those affected even after they have completed their rehabilitation.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section