S.B. No. 836 is a legislative bill aimed at enhancing the protection and confidentiality of victims of sex offenses, including sexual assault and sex-based human trafficking. The bill amends various articles in the Code of Criminal Procedure to prohibit the use of evidence from forensic medical examinations in prosecuting misdemeanor offenses against the victim. It establishes that such evidence must be kept confidential and under seal during court proceedings, and it allows for the issuance of protective orders to prevent the dissemination of sensitive materials. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for victims to use pseudonyms in public records and ensures that their identifying information remains confidential throughout the legal process.

The bill also expands the rights of victims by requiring law enforcement to provide written notices about their rights, including the option to obtain a forensic medical examination and the ability to request protective orders. It prohibits the electronic transmission of court proceedings related to sexual offenses without the consent of the victim and other parties involved. The changes are set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply to court hearings or law enforcement responses that occur on or after that date.

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