In a significant move to combat human trafficking and related crimes, the Texas Legislature discussed House Bill 1778 during the Senate session on May 16, 2025. This comprehensive legislation codifies recommendations from the Texas Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force, aiming to strengthen the state's response to human trafficking, prostitution, child exploitation, and sexual assault.

The bill introduces several key provisions designed to enhance both the prosecution of offenders and the protection of victims. Notably, it improves interagency coordination and expands training for identifying potential trafficking victims, including training for tattoo and piercing studios, as well as continuing education for barbers and cosmetologists. This approach aims to create a more informed community that can recognize and respond to signs of trafficking.

One of the most critical updates involves the legal framework surrounding prostitution. The bill seeks to close existing loopholes by restoring pre-2023 language and establishing a new penal code offense for the continuous promotion of prostitution, which will be classified as a first-degree felony. This change reflects a tougher stance on those who exploit vulnerable individuals for profit.

Additionally, the legislation addresses child sexual exploitation with harsher penalties. It resolves conflicting penalties for child pornography possession and elevates the punishment for promoting such material to a first-degree felony, carrying a minimum sentence of 15 years for distributing more than 50 images or videos depicting child sexual abuse. This provision highlights the serious nature of these crimes and the state's commitment to protecting children.

Victim protections are also significantly enhanced. The bill broadens the duty to report or intervene in cases of assault against children and extends the statute of limitations for failing to report such offenses. It allows for outcry statements from all children under 18 to be admissible in court, ensuring that multiple accounts of abuse can be considered during legal proceedings. Furthermore, it clarifies the use of relationship evidence in trafficking cases, providing context that can aid in prosecution.

Overall, House Bill 1778 represents a robust effort by Texas lawmakers to address the pressing issues of human trafficking and sexual assault. By equipping prosecutors with stronger tools and enhancing protections for victims, the legislation aims to create a safer environment for the most vulnerable members of society. As the bill moves forward, its implementation will be closely watched, with the potential to significantly impact the fight against these heinous crimes in Texas.