Legislation establishing legal protections for human trafficking victims who were coerced into crimes during their captivity was vetoed by Gov. Greg Abbott last month, but is set to be taken up again during the 89th Legislature’s first special session.
Senate Bill (SB) 1278, authored by Sen. Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound), sought to create an affirmative defense to the prosecution for suspects who were coerced or acted under duress or threat of imminent death or serious bodily injury — garnering unanimous support in both chambers during the regular session.
