Bill to fund rape kit analyses passes

Bill to fund rape kit analyses passes

The Legislature has approved a bill allowing drivers to offer donations to help the state clear its backlog of untested rape kits, sending it to Gov. Greg Abbott.

Texas has about 3,800 untested kits at state labs, and thousands more in cities such as Dallas and Austin. Processing a single one can cost up to $2,000.

The bipartisan proposal asks Texans renewing their driver licenses to donate $1 or more for rape kits awaiting analysis.

Advocates say that while this particular donation approach is new, crowdfunding isn't. In 2007, Texas enacted a $5 fee from sexually oriented businesses to help finance initiatives like rape crisis centers and programs for sexual assault survivors.

Abbott hasn't said if he'll sign the bill, but it becomes law automatically unless he vetoes it.

Sex abuse prevention in school approved

Texas children as young as 5 could soon be taught how to better ward off sex abuse.

The Legislature has approved a requirement for all public schools to provide sexual abuse prevention training to students.

The measure heads to Gov. Greg Abbott's desk after final House passage Friday on a 136-9 vote.

It mandates that both elementary and secondary schools offer age-appropriate, research-based training to promote self-protection and prevent abuse and human trafficking.

The schools must provide the instruction twice a year, and explain the content of course materials both on their websites and in a handbook.

The bill is designed to combat an increase in reports of sexual abuse and trafficking in Texas.

Legislature OKs guns for first responders

A bill allowing volunteer firefighters and first responders to bring their guns into restricted areas has cleared the state Legislature.

It pertains to volunteer emergency personnel who have concealed carry licenses, and passed the House on a final, 136-9 vote Friday.

The proposal now heads to Gov. Greg Abbott. He's expected to sign it, though it will become law automatically without his approval, unless he vetoes it.

Proponents say the legislation protects first responders arriving to potentially dangerous scenes, and lets them get there faster since they won't have to worry about stashing their guns beforehand.

But opponents noted that first responders don't receive extra training to carry their guns and worried about unintended consequences.

The bill is one of several loosening firearms restrictions this legislative session in Texas.

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