The provisions of the bill that are the subject of this analysis would amend the Family Code and Health and Safety Code as they relate to the protection of children by ensuring reports of abuse or neglect, protecting children from abuse and neglect, and ensuring that births are reported.  Under the provisions of the bill, failure to report abuse or neglect by a professional as defined by Section 261.101 (b), Family Code, would be enhanced to a state jail felony if the person has been previously convicted under this section.  The bill would also amend the Health and Safety Code making failure to report a birth as required by Section 192.003, Health and Safety Code punishable as a Class A misdemeanor.  

Enhancing punishment for criminal behavior is expected to result in increased demands upon the correctional resources of counties or of the State due to longer terms of probation, or, longer terms of confinement in county jails or prison.  However, the number of offenders convicted under the provisions of the bill is not expected to result in increased demands upon the correctional resources of counties or of the State.