The creation of the criminal offense of hindering the investigation or prosecution of certain sexual offenses committed against a child

Texas House Bill 2113, introduced in 2025, aims to establish a new criminal offense for individuals who obstruct the investigation or prosecution of specific sexual offenses committed against children. The bill defines 'hindering' as actions such as altering or concealing evidence, interfering with witness cooperation, harboring offenders, assisting offenders in avoiding arrest, and providing false information to law enforcement or child protective services. The offense is classified as a third-degree felony, with an enhancement to a second-degree felony if the failure to report enables subsequent offenses. Additionally, the bill establishes confidentiality protections for victims and accused individuals until charges are filed. The proposed law applies to offenses committed on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025.

Supporters of HB 2113 argue that the bill strengthens protections for child victims of sexual offenses by holding accountable those who obstruct justice. They believe that by criminalizing actions that hinder investigations, the bill will deter individuals from interfering with law enforcement efforts, thereby facilitating more effective prosecutions and potentially reducing the incidence of such crimes.

Critics of HB 2113 express concerns that the bill's broad definitions of 'hindering' could lead to unintended consequences, such as penalizing individuals who may not fully understand their legal obligations. They also worry that the increased penalties might disproportionately affect certain communities and could discourage individuals from cooperating with authorities due to fear of prosecution.