The bill, H.B. No. 734, aims to enhance the penalties for individuals who fail to report child abuse or neglect. It amends Section 261.109(c) of the Family Code, establishing that an offense under this section is classified as a Class A misdemeanor. However, if it is proven during the trial that the individual intended to conceal the abuse or neglect, or if the conduct that was not reported involves specific serious offenses such as continuous sexual abuse of a young child, sexual assault, or trafficking of persons, the offense escalates to a state jail felony. The bill outlines various offenses that, if not reported, would lead to increased penalties, including solicitation of prostitution and causing a child to engage in sexual conduct.

The changes introduced by this bill will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Any offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the existing laws at that time. This ensures that individuals are not retroactively penalized under the new provisions for actions taken prior to the bill's enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 261.109 (Family Code 261)