CS/HB 7031 Summary

• Expands child hearsay exception in evidence rules from children age 11 or less to children age 16 or less when describing sexual abuse or child abuse acts.

• Replaces "instant message name" with "Internet identifier" in sexual predator and offender registration laws; requires disclosure of all electronic mail addresses and Internet identifiers before use.

• Adds requirement that sexual predators and offenders unable to update driver licenses must report changes to local sheriff's office within 48 hours and confirm reporting to Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

• Requires courts to determine at bail hearings whether defendants are subject to sexual offender or sexual predator registration and hold them without bail until first appearance, with limited exceptions.

• Enhances penalties for third or subsequent indecent exposure violations from misdemeanor to third-degree felony; adds multiple offenses to sexual predator and sexual offender qualifying offense lists; makes false registration information a criminal offense.

• Effective date: October 1, 2013.