The bill, H.B. No. 903, proposes the repeal of the offense of homosexual conduct by eliminating Section 21.06 from the Penal Code. This repeal signifies a significant shift in the legal treatment of homosexual conduct in Texas, removing it from the list of criminal offenses. Additionally, the bill amends existing provisions in the Health and Safety Code, specifically Section 85.007(b) and Section 163.002, to remove references to homosexual conduct as a criminal offense, thereby aligning educational materials with the new legal framework.

In the amended sections, the language previously stating that homosexual conduct is a criminal offense has been deleted, and the focus is shifted towards promoting sexual abstinence and responsible sexual behavior without the implication of criminality associated with homosexuality. The bill aims to update the state's approach to sexual education and public health, reflecting a more inclusive perspective on sexual orientation while maintaining an emphasis on abstinence and responsible decision-making. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 21.06, Health and Safety Code 85.007, Health and Safety Code 21.06 (Penal Code 21, Health and Safety Code 85, Health and Safety Code 21)