The bill amends the Texas Penal Code to enhance the prosecution of trafficking offenses, specifically regarding the trafficking of children and disabled individuals. It introduces new legal provisions that clarify that in prosecutions for offenses related to causing a trafficked child or disabled individual to engage in prostitution, it is not a valid defense that the victim lacked the culpable mental state to engage in the act or that they did not complete the act of prostitution. This applies to offenses under Sections 20A.02(a)(7) and (8) and 20A.03, ensuring that the focus remains on the actions of the trafficker rather than the circumstances of the victim.

Additionally, the bill specifies 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 continue to be governed by the existing law. This legislative change aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding trafficking offenses and provide better protection for vulnerable individuals.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()