BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	H.B. 2593
	By: Metcalf et al. (Huffman)
	Criminal Justice
	5/21/2025
	Engrossed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Current Texas law already reflects that children, elderly individuals, and disabled individuals in our community are at a higher risk of experiencing exploitation and there is an increased likelihood that they are unable to protect themselves from harm. As such, certain crimes committed against these vulnerable members of our communities have a higher punishment range upon conviction. Accordingly, H.B. 2593 increases the penalty range for indecent assault against elderly or disabled individuals from a misdemeanor to a second degree felony.

H.B. 2593 amends current law relating to increasing the criminal penalty for the offense of indecent assault against a disabled or elderly individual.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Sections 22.012(b) and (d), Penal Code, as follows:

(b) Provides that an offense under Section 22.012 (Indecent Assault) is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the second degree if the victim is a disabled individual or an elderly individual. Makes nonsubstantive changes.

(d) Defines "disabled individual" and "elderly individual."

SECTION 2. Makes application of this Act prospective.

SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 2025.