S.B. No. 1019 aims to amend the Family Code regarding the admissibility of certain hearsay statements in cases involving sexual or assaultive offenses against children or individuals with disabilities. The bill specifies that it applies to hearings where the alleged victim is a child aged 18 years or younger or a person with a disability. Additionally, it clarifies the definition of "person with a disability" to align with the definition of "disabled individual" as outlined in the Penal Code, replacing the previous definition that was limited to individuals aged 13 and older.

The bill's provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to juvenile court cases that commence on or after this date. Cases that begin before the effective date will continue to be governed by the existing law. This legislative change is intended to enhance the legal framework surrounding the protection of vulnerable victims in the judicial process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 54.031 (Family Code 54)
Senate Committee Report: Family Code 54.031 (Family Code 54)
Engrossed: Family Code 54.031 (Family Code 54)