The bill amends the Texas Penal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure to redefine the age of a child in relation to offenses of indecency with a child and sexual assault. Specifically, it raises the age of a child from under 17 years to under 18 years in several sections, including Section 21.11(a) and Section 22.011(c)(1) of the Penal Code. Additionally, the bill modifies the definitions and conditions related to community supervision and parole for offenders whose victims are children, establishing a child safety zone that prohibits the offender from being near places where children gather and requiring attendance at psychological counseling sessions for sex offenders.

The bill also clarifies that these changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Offenses committed prior to this date will be governed by the laws in effect at that time. This legislative change aims to enhance protections for minors and ensure stricter supervision of offenders who have committed crimes against children.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 21.11, Penal Code 22.011, Government Code 508.187 (Penal Code 21, Penal Code 22, Government Code 508)