Texas House Bill HB347

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to the prosecution of the offense of invasive visual recording in a lactation room.

Impact

The proposed changes to the Penal Code would amend existing laws on privacy to include specific provisions for lactation rooms, thus ensuring that individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy while using these facilities. By classifying lactation rooms as spaces where visual recording is strictly prohibited without consent, HB347 is positioned to strengthen legal protections for breastfeeding mothers and promote more conducive environments for nursing and expressing milk. The changes would only apply to offenses committed after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, thus allowing for a transition period for public awareness of the new provisions.

Summary

House Bill 347 addresses the prosecution of the offense of invasive visual recording in lactation rooms. This legislation aims to enhance privacy protections for individuals using lactation rooms by clearly defining what constitutes a lactation room and making it an explicit offense to capture or disseminate visual recordings without consent in such spaces. The bill seeks to address concerns regarding the privacy of nursing mothers and their right to express breast milk or breast-feed in designated areas without fear of being recorded or surveilled inappropriately.

Contention

While the bill seems to have significant support from advocacy groups focused on women's rights and child care, concerns may arise around its enforcement and interpretation. There may be discussions on how the law will be upheld, particularly in public places where lactation rooms are provided. Moreover, potential challenges regarding the balance between privacy rights and the need for security in public establishments may be a point of contention as the bill progresses through legislative procedures.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

• Chapter 21. Sexual Offenses
  • Section: New Section