Texas House Bill HB3653

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/3/25

Caption

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of certain trafficking of persons offenses; increasing criminal penalties; changing parole eligibility.

Impact

The enactment of HB3653 would significantly affect state laws concerning human trafficking. By enhancing penalties for trafficking-related offenses, the bill seeks to deter future incidents and deliver a stronger message regarding the severity of these crimes. The modifications in parole eligibility are particularly notable as they provide that individuals convicted of grave offenses related to human trafficking cannot be considered for parole, thereby ensuring that dangerous offenders remain incarcerated for extended periods.

Summary

House Bill 3653 aims to address the prosecution and punishment of human trafficking offenses by increasing criminal penalties and altering parole eligibility for certain offenders. The legislation redefines specific crimes related to human trafficking, particularly those involving children or individuals with disabilities, establishing stricter sentencing guidelines. With this bill, offenses involving the trafficking of children may be classified as capital felonies, potentially resulting in life imprisonment without parole for offenders.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB3653 may have included points of contention regarding the implications of stricter sentencing laws and their effectiveness in preventing human trafficking. Critics may argue that increased penalties do not address the root causes of trafficking and might lead to prison overcrowding. Furthermore, there is an ongoing debate about the balance between justice for victims and the rights of the accused, raising concerns on whether these changes could inadvertently impact rehabilitation efforts.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Code Of Criminal Procedure

• Chapter 37. The Verdict
  • Section: 072

Penal Code

• Chapter 20. Kidnapping, Unlawful Restraint, Andsmuggling Of Persons
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 12. Punishments
  • Section: 42

Government Code

• Chapter 508. Parole And Mandatory Supervision
  • Section: 145