The bill, H.B. No. 1255, aims to increase the criminal penalties for certain offenses committed by professionals who are mandated to report child abuse or neglect when such offenses are directed against children under their care. A new section, 12.503, is added to the Penal Code, which stipulates that if a professional, as defined by the Family Code, commits an offense against a child in their care, the punishment will be elevated to the next higher category of offense. This increase in punishment applies specifically to offenses outlined in various sections of the Penal Code, including those related to sexual offenses and assault.

Additionally, the bill specifies that if an offense is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, the minimum term of confinement will be raised to 180 days. However, if the offense is a first-degree felony, the punishment cannot be increased under this new provision. The changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025, ensuring that any offenses occurring prior to this date will be governed by the existing laws.

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