WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 4923

Relating to status offenses committed by a child, including the repeal of the status offense of a child voluntarily running away from home.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Joe Moody

Texas bill eliminates running away as a prosecutable status offense for children, redirecting intervention toward social services instead of juvenile justice.

Left pending in subcommittee
#courts--judges(i0140) #crimes--juvenile(i0190) #family--juveniledelinquency(i0360) #minors--juvenilejustice(i0534) #runawaychildren(s0177)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4923

Legislative bill overview

HB 4923 would eliminate the criminal classification of running away from home as a status offense for children in Texas. Status offenses are actions that are only illegal because of a minor's age; they would be legal if committed by an adult. This bill removes the legal authority to prosecute children solely for the act of running away.

Why is this important

Approximately 1.6 million youth run away annually in the U.S., often due to abuse, neglect, or family crisis. Classifying running away as a crime can trap vulnerable youth in the juvenile justice system rather than connecting them with social services, shelter, or family intervention. This change would redirect resources toward treatment and support rather than incarceration for minors experiencing crisis situations.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Opponents may argue that removing this charge eliminates a tool law enforcement uses to locate missing children and return them home safely, particularly in trafficking or endangerment situations.
  • Parental authority: Some stakeholders could contend that eliminating this offense undermines parental rights and parents' ability to discipline or manage runaway children through the justice system.
  • Alternative service capacity: Critics might question whether Texas has adequate social services, emergency shelters, and counseling resources to handle runaways if the criminal justice pathway is removed.

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

Sign in to ask a question.