Sexting Laws in Texas
Sexting Laws in Texas:
In Texas, sexting is a crime and Texas has a law especially for this crime.
Under Texas’s sexting law, a minor caught sexting sexual images is charged with a misdemeanor. The individual is required to take a state sponsored educational class with one of his/her parents. The educational class is designed to educate both the individual and the parent about the dangers and the huge consequences of sexting and the dangers of distributing child pornography.
Once the individual reaches 18 years of age, the crime is erased from the individual’s record.
This sexting law only applies to minors who are below 18 years of age. Individuals who are over 18 years are charged under the state’s child pornography law which is a felony. Prison time can be up to 20 years and must register as a sex offender.
Punishments:
- First offense: misdemeanor and minor must attend a state sponsored educational class with one of his/her parents.
- Second offense: a misdemeanor with heavier charges including fines and prison time.
- The individual is not required to register as a sex offender.