SB1278

Relating to an affirmative defense to prosecution for victims of trafficking of persons or compelling prostitution.

Vetoed·6/22/25

Texas SB1278 provides an affirmative defense for victims of trafficking, compelling prostitution, or family violence.

Texas SB1278 amends the Penal Code to include an affirmative defense for individuals prosecuted for certain offenses if they were victims of trafficking, compelling prostitution, or family violence. This defense applies to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is September 1, 2025. The defense allows for evidence of the victim's status to be presented in court.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Sponsors

DDD
3
2
RR
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

140 Yea

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0 Nay

1 Not Voting

R

9 Absent

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Calendar

May 13, 2025

8:00 AM

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee Hearing

Apr 29, 2025

8:00 AM

Senate Criminal Justice Committee Hearing

History

Jun 22, 2025

Vetoed by the Governor

May 27, 2025

Sent to the Governor

May 26, 2025

Senate

Signed in the Senate