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HB 947

Relating to affirmative defenses to prosecution for certain offenses involving material or conduct that is obscene or otherwise harmful to children.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Janis Holt and 2 co-sponsors

HB 947 establishes affirmative legal defenses for prosecutions involving obscene material or content harmful to children in Texas courts.

Referred to State Affairs
#crimes--againstpersons--general(i0170) #crimes--againstpersons--sexual(i0171) #criminalprocedure--general(i0208) #librarycollectiondevelopment&materials(se35p) #libraries&librarians(i0523) #minors--crimesagainst(i0532)
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Bill Summary · HB 947

Legislative bill overview

HB 947 would establish affirmative defenses for individuals prosecuted under Texas laws regarding obscene material or content harmful to children. The bill creates legal exceptions that allow defendants to avoid conviction if they meet certain criteria, though the specific defenses are not detailed in the current bill status. This represents a modification to existing child protection statutes by introducing defensive mechanisms for accused parties.

Why is this important

Child protection laws are among the most strictly enforced statutes, with limited defenses available to defendants. Any modification to these laws generates significant scrutiny from both child advocacy groups and civil liberties advocates. The bill's passage or failure could affect how prosecutors pursue cases and what legal arguments defendants can present in court.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope of defenses: Clarity is critical—overly broad defenses could weaken child protection enforcement, while narrow ones may accomplish little
  • Conflict with child safety priorities: Law enforcement and child advocacy organizations may argue that adding defenses undermines efforts to prosecute exploitation and obscenity crimes
  • Constitutional and practical implications: Depending on the specific defenses proposed, the bill may raise questions about due process rights versus child protection objectives, and whether existing defenses already adequately protect defendants

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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