Legislation cracking down on explicit sexual content in Texas school libraries is on its way to the governor’s desk, marking the first Republican Party of Texas priority bill this session to clear both chambers.
Senate Bill 412, by State Sen. Mayes Middleton (R–Galveston) and carried in the House by State Rep. Jared Patterson (R–Frisco), passed the Texas House on Friday.
The Senate approved the measure earlier in the session.
The bill removes broad exemptions in Texas law that currently shield school officials, librarians, and others from prosecution for distributing material deemed harmful to minors, so long as it is for an “educational purpose.”
Senate Bill 412 narrows that exemption, allowing only law enforcement and judicial officers to use such a defense when charged under obscenity laws.
During debate, House Democrats spoke in opposition to the bill, saying the legislation attacks school librarians.
In response, State Rep. Mitch Little (R–Lewisville) stated, “Teachers and librarians that intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly expose children to harmful content should be in fear in the State of Texas.”
The bill passed in a bipartisan 99-31 vote.
The legislation stems from concerns raised by parents and Republican lawmakers over sexually explicit books found in Texas public and school libraries. Its passage marks progress for GOP lawmakers who have prioritized removing such content as part of broader efforts to protect minors. In a statement, the Republican Party of Texas called it a “huge win for Texas children.”
“We are excited for one of our Legislative Priority Bills to be well on its way to the Governor’s desk!”
Christin Bentley, who chairs the party’s subcommittee on protecting Texas children, celebrated the win.
“There is NEVER a reason to give a child porn and there is NEVER a reason to have a child perform sexually for an adult. For 52 years, Texas law has said otherwise, allowing ridiculous legal justifications for both of those things. Today, that changed,” said Bentley.
If signed by Gov. Greg Abbott, the legislation will take effect on September 1, 2025.
