Texas HB1602 amends the Family Code to classify knowingly making false reports of child abuse or neglect as a criminal offense.

Texas HB1602 amends Section 261.107(a) of the Family Code to establish that knowingly making false reports of child abuse or neglect is a criminal offense. The offense is classified as a state jail felony or, if the person has a prior conviction or committed the offense due to bias or prejudice, a felony of the third degree. The changes apply only to offenses committed after the effective date of the Act, which is September 1, 2025. Offenses committed before this date will be governed by the law in effect at the time of the offense.

Texas HB1602 amends the Family Code to classify knowingly making false reports of child abuse or neglect as a criminal offense.

Texas HB1602 amends Section 261.107(a) of the Family Code to establish that knowingly making false reports of child abuse or neglect is a criminal offense. The offense is classified as a state jail felony or, if the person has a prior conviction or committed the offense due to bias or prejudice, a felony of the third degree. The changes apply only to offenses committed after the effective date of the Act, which is September 1, 2025. Offenses committed before this date will be governed by the law in effect at the time of the offense.