Governor Abbott Vetoes House Bill 1363 (84R)
Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto House Bill No. 1363 as passed by the Eighty-Fourth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:
House Bill 1363 provides useful tools for courts when distinguishing between the offenses of prostitution and soliciting the services of a prostitute. This is a supportable goal, however this bill also reduces penalties for individuals convicted of prostitution on multiple occasions. Reducing penalties for willful repeat offenders is not in the best interest of the offender or the people of Texas. A better option for addressing the difference between prostitution and soliciting the services of a prostitute is Senate Bill 825, which does more to protect the victims of human trafficking and forced prostitution.
Since the Eighty-Fourth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.
GREG ABBOTT
Governor
View a PDF of the veto here