S.B. No. 1638 is a legislative bill designed to enhance the rights and protections for victims of sexual assault and related offenses in Texas. It broadens the definition of "victim" to include individuals under 17 and those involved in family violence cases, while expanding the rights of victims, guardians, and close relatives. Key provisions include ensuring victims receive timely information about court proceedings, the right to participate in the parole process, and the right to compensation for medical examinations following a sexual assault. The bill also introduces reimbursement for healthcare providers conducting forensic medical examinations and outlines additional rights such as victim-offender mediation and the prompt return of personal property held as evidence.

The bill amends various sections of the Government Code, Health and Safety Code, and Occupations Code, establishing minimum standards for the certification and training of sexual assault nurse examiners, now requiring a three-year certification. It mandates emergency department staff to receive at least one hour of basic sexual assault response training and introduces new information forms for survivors that include legal aid contact information and post-exposure prophylaxis details. Additionally, it requires documentation from licensed healthcare providers for tenants experiencing certain sexual offenses, while removing the previous requirement for documentation to be provided on the premises. The changes will apply only to offenses reported or for which medical care is sought after the effective date of the Act, September 1, 2025, and the Texas Medical Board and Texas Physician Assistant Board are tasked with implementing the necessary rules by June 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 57.002, Government Code 420.011, Health and Safety Code 323.0046, Health and Safety Code 323.005, Health and Safety Code 323.0051, Health and Safety Code 323.0052, Health and Safety Code 323.053, Local Government Code 351.257, Subchapter J, Chapter , Local Government Code 772.0064, Occupations Code 156.057, Occupations Code 2402.107, Property Code 92.0161 (Family Code 57, Government Code 420, Health and Safety Code 323, Occupations Code 2402, Property Code 92, Occupations Code 156, Local Government Code 351, Subchapter J, Chapter , Local Government Code 772)