The bill, S.B. No. 126, establishes strict prohibitions against conducting studies or surveys on children's sexual behavior by public primary and secondary schools, institutions of higher education, and other entities, including prescription drug manufacturers and research organizations. Specifically, it adds new sections to the Education Code and the Health and Safety Code that make it a state jail felony for any person or institution to conduct such studies without written consent from a parent or guardian. Additionally, the bill imposes civil penalties ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for each child unlawfully included in these studies or surveys, with the attorney general authorized to investigate violations and collect penalties.

The bill also emphasizes that any study or survey conducted must not violate existing laws, reinforcing the prohibition against unauthorized research on children's sexual behavior. It includes provisions for reporting any disclosures of child abuse or neglect that may arise from such studies. The new regulations are set to take effect on September 1, 2025, aiming to protect children from unauthorized and potentially harmful research practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()