TX HB3231

Elevates all human trafficking offenses under Section 20A.02 from second-degree felonies to first-degree felonies, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison

Removes the requirement that prosecutors prove the defendant knew the victim's age or disability status when trafficking children or disabled individuals for forced labor or sexual exploitation

Establishes enhanced penalties of 25-99 years or life imprisonment for trafficking offenses committed within 1,000 feet of schools, universities, juvenile detention facilities, child-care facilities, homeless shelters, or youth community centers

Adds institutions of higher education to the list of protected locations where enhanced trafficking penalties apply

Applies only to offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025, with prior offenses governed by existing law