Texas HB1509, known as Shannah's Law, increases the penalty for failing to stop or report an aggravated sexual assault of a child.

Texas HB1509, also known as Shannah's Law, amends the state's Penal Code to increase the penalty for failing to stop or report an aggravated sexual assault of a child. Under the new law, a person commits an offense if they observe or attempt to observe an aggravated sexual assault or assaultive offense against a child, fail to assist the child or report the offense, and could do so without placing themselves in danger. The offense is now classified as a felony of the third degree. The law applies only to offenses committed after its effective date of September 1, 2025.

Texas HB1509, known as Shannah's Law, increases the penalty for failing to stop or report an aggravated sexual assault of a child.

Texas HB1509, also known as Shannah's Law, amends the state's Penal Code to increase the penalty for failing to stop or report an aggravated sexual assault of a child. Under the new law, a person commits an offense if they observe or attempt to observe an aggravated sexual assault or assaultive offense against a child, fail to assist the child or report the offense, and could do so without placing themselves in danger. The offense is now classified as a felony of the third degree. The law applies only to offenses committed after its effective date of September 1, 2025.