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TX HB4918
Bill
Status
3/13/2025
Primary Sponsor
Ann Johnson
Click for details
AI Summary
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Expands the definition of "victim" in the Code of Criminal Procedure to include victims of family violence and stalking offenses, as well as victims of protective order violations committed through assault, aggravated assault, sexual assault, or stalking
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Adds "aggravated assault" to the list of offenses for which victims under 17 years of age or in family violence cases have the right to have courts consider the impact of defendant-requested continuances
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Creates new Article 56A.0521 establishing additional rights for victims of family violence, stalking, and protective order violations, including rights to evidence disclosure, notification of crime lab analysis requests, and consultation with prosecutors regarding case disposition decisions
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Prohibits victims from designating the person charged with the offense to receive notifications on their behalf
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Removes stalking from the list of offenses covered under Article 56A.052 (sexual assault and trafficking victims' rights) and places it under the new family violence and stalking article, effective September 1, 2025
Legislative Description
Relating to rights of a victim, guardian of a victim, or close relative of a deceased victim in certain criminal cases involving family violence, sexual or assaultive offenses, stalking, or a violation of a protective order or condition of bond.
Crimes
Last Action
Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence
4/3/2025