TX HB4624

Prohibits defendants from using a victim's gender identity or sexual orientation as justification for the use of force, establishing that such discovery or disclosure does not constitute a reasonable belief that force was immediately necessary

Bars defendants from claiming a lower degree of culpability based on discovering or learning about a victim's gender identity or sexual orientation, or based on a nonviolent romantic or sexual advance from the victim

Eliminates the "sudden passion" defense when the alleged adequate cause was the defendant's discovery of the victim's gender identity or sexual orientation, or a nonviolent advance by the victim

Defines "gender identity" as actual or perceived gender-related identity, expression, appearance, or characteristics regardless of designated sex at birth, and "sexual orientation" as actual or perceived heterosexuality, homosexuality, or bisexuality

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