Governor Greg Abbott signed into law House Bill 2000, known as Audrii’s Law, on May 24, in direct response to the abduction and murder of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham from the Houston area.
The legislation closes a legal gap by requiring individuals convicted of grooming minors to register as sex offenders in Texas.
Set to take effect on September 1, 2025, the law mandates sex offender registration for grooming offenses and expands registration requirements for other related crimes.
Audrii Cunningham was abducted and killed earlier this year, prompting public outcry and calls for reform. Her family actively supported the legislative effort, advocating for stronger protections for children and accountability for offenders.
“Today we honor Audrii’s memory by making sure Texas law protects children from predators who exploit loopholes,” Abbott said during the bill’s signing. “This law ensures that offenders convicted of grooming will no longer go unmonitored.”
The legislation was drafted following revelations that individuals convicted of online or in-person grooming were not previously required to register as sex offenders under Texas law, creating what advocates called a dangerous oversight.
Under Audrii’s Law, Texas will now classify grooming convictions under the state’s sex offender registry, enhancing law enforcement’s ability to track offenders and notify communities.
The Texas Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement agencies will oversee the law’s implementation, including updates to the registry system to include the new offenses.
