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HB 1552

Relating to changing the name of the offense of child pornography to child sexual abuse material and to updating references to conform to that terminology.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Giovanni Capriglione and 2 co-sponsors

Texas bill replaces "child pornography" with "child sexual abuse material" terminology throughout state criminal statutes to better reflect the abusive nature of such content.

Referred to Criminal Justice
#childabuse(s4256) #crimes--againstpersons--sexual(i0171) #minors--crimesagainst(i0532) #pornography(s0379) #sexualabuse(s9791)
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Bill Summary · HB 1552

Legislative bill overview

HB 1552 changes the statutory terminology used in Texas law from "child pornography" to "child sexual abuse material" (CSAM) throughout relevant criminal statutes and legal references. This is primarily a nomenclature update that replaces outdated language with terminology that more accurately reflects the nature of the content as documentation of child abuse rather than pornography.

Why is this important

The terminology shift has practical legal implications—prosecutors, courts, and law enforcement use these statutory terms in charging documents, convictions, and sentencing. Updating language to "child sexual abuse material" better reflects modern understanding that such content represents actual abuse of children and may influence how courts and the public conceptualize these crimes. Several states and the federal government have already adopted similar language changes.

Potential points of contention

  • Statutory interpretation concerns: Changes to criminal statute language could create questions about whether past convictions using "child pornography" terminology remain valid or enforceable, potentially requiring legal clarification
  • Minimal substantive change: Critics may argue this is symbolic legislation that doesn't address underlying enforcement, prevention, or victim support issues
  • Consistency across systems: Implementation requires updating references across multiple state agencies, court systems, and legal documents, which carries administrative burden and potential for inconsistent application during transition

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

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