1. (a) Evidence collected during a forensic medical examination conducted under Subchapter G, Chapter 56A, may not be used to investigate or prosecute a misdemeanor offense, or an offense under Subchapter D, Chapter 481, Health and Safety Code, alleged to have been committed by the victim from whom the evidence was collected.
2. (b) During the course of a criminal hearing or proceeding, the court may not make available or allow to be made available for copying or dissemination to the public any property or material related to or derived from evidence described by Subsection (a), including a visual image or a recording made as part of the examination.
3. (c) The court shall place property or material described by Subsection (a) under seal of the court on the conclusion of the hearing or proceeding.
4. (d) A court that places under seal property or material described by Subsection (a) may issue an order lifting the seal on a finding that the order is in the best interest of the public.

Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 822 (H.B. 2706), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2021.

Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 206 (S.B. 1401), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2023.

Acts 2025, 89th Leg., R.S., Ch. 11 (S.B. 836), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2025.