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Bill

HB 2749

Relating to the authority of certain counties to restrict sex offenders from child safety zones in certain portions of the unincorporated area of the county; creating a criminal offense.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Angelia Orr

Texas bill authorizes counties to criminally prohibit sex offenders from child safety zones in unincorporated areas, expanding local residency restrictions.

Referred to s/c on County & Regional Government by Speaker
#childsafetyzones(s0282) #corrections--parole #probation&pardons(i0093) #countygovernment--general(i0096) #crimes--againstpersons--sexual(i0171) #daycare(i0209) #minors--crimesagainst(i0532) #minors--health&safety(i0533) #sexualoffenders(s0099)
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Bill Summary · HB 2749

Legislative bill overview

HB 2749 grants certain Texas counties the authority to establish and enforce "child safety zones" in unincorporated areas where registered sex offenders are prohibited from residing or loitering. The bill creates a new criminal offense for sex offenders who violate these restrictions within designated zones in their county's unincorporated territory.

Why is this important

Sex offender residency restrictions are a longstanding public safety policy tool, but their effectiveness is debated among researchers. This bill expands local authority to implement such restrictions beyond what state law currently permits, potentially affecting thousands of registered offenders and their housing options. The creation of new criminal penalties could result in additional convictions and incarceration for violation of geographic restrictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: Residency restriction laws have faced court challenges regarding due process and ex post facto application; expanding them may invite similar legal scrutiny
  • Implementation ambiguity: The bill's reference to "certain counties" and "certain portions" lacks specificity about which counties qualify and how zone boundaries are determined, creating potential inconsistencies
  • Effectiveness vs. evidence: Research shows mixed results on whether residency restrictions reduce recidivism or protect children, raising questions about whether expanded restrictions serve the stated safety goal
  • Housing burden: Broad geographic restrictions can severely limit offenders' viable housing, potentially destabilizing supervision and increasing homelessness among this population

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

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