Texas Gov. Abbott Signs Audrii's Law Expanding Sex Offender Registry

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has recently signed multiple significant legislative measures aimed at strengthening state laws on voting rights, taxation, foreign interference, and child protection. Among these, three constitutional amendments will appear on the 2025 ballot, including one clarifying that only U.S. citizens may vote in Texas and two others prohibiting new taxes on securities transactions, aligning with plans to launch a Texas Stock Exchange. Abbott also enacted a law targeting transnational repression, making it a felony for individuals acting on behalf of foreign governments—such as China—to intimidate or harass Texans, particularly those exercising First Amendment rights. In response to the tragic murder of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, Abbott signed "Audrii's Law," which expands mandatory sex offender registration to include child grooming offenses, closing a critical loophole that previously allowed offenders to avoid registration. This law, unanimously passed by the Texas legislature, is intended to protect children and prevent similar tragedies, reflecting broad bipartisan support. Together, these actions underscore Abbott's focus on security, voter integrity, economic growth, and child safety in Texas.