Nondiscrimination:
HB 3564: Romeo and Juliet Fair Defense Act.
Primary Author: Rep. Garnet Coleman (D-Houston)
Joint Author: None
Co-Author: None
Background: "Heavy petting" is classified as a crime for minors under Texas law. It is classified as "indecency with a child". Currently, there is a defense to prosecution for age-appropriate dating by straight kids. This defense is not available to gay or lesbian kids. This bill would make the affirmative defense of age-appropriate dating available to all young couples, not just straight kids.
Committee: Criminal Jurisprudence
Actions: 04/01/09 - Left pending in committee
04/01/09 - Testimony taken in public hearing
03/19/09 - Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence
03/11/09 - Filed
Equality Texas Position: Supports. This bill is part of our Legislative Agenda.
Equality Texas Bill Fact Sheet: Fact Sheet on HB 3564 (pdf)