The clock is ticking in the Texas Legislative Session, and time is running out! Your ACTION is needed to protect children from being sexually groomed in their communities.

HB 1549, The Retail Decency Act, by Rep. Hillary Hickland is designed to protect the innocence and well-being of Texas kids by ensuring that obscene devices (sex toys) aren't openly displayed or marketed where minors can access them.

HB 1549 is AT RISK of being killed in the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development. We need a hearing scheduled promptly!

Right now, across Texas, mainstream stores - from drugstores to big chains - are placing these items on open shelves, often near children's products or in busy family aisles. We're talking about sex toys next to kids' toothbrushes, in Valentine's displays with candy and stuffed animals, or even advertised on trucks in our cities. Some come in bright packaging with cartoons or slogans that catch young eyes. This isn't just inappropriate - it's dangerous. Studies show early exposure to sexual content increases risks of exploitation and aggression in youth. It's another step toward normalizing indecent materials for kids, eroding the boundaries that keep them safe.

HB 1549 isn't about banning these products - it's about common-sense rules to keep them out of kids' view and reach. It's a reasonable solution that upholds Texas family values and protects our children's safety and wellbeing.

But time is running out! HB 1549 needs a hearing in the House Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development, led by Chairwoman Button. Parents, educators, faith leaders, and health professionals across the state support this bill - and it has bipartisan support. This bill deserves a chance to be heard.

Here are the most important things you can do right now:

• Sign onto the Coalition Letter in SUPPORT asking Chairwoman Angie Chen Button to set a hearing for HB 1549 before time runs out!
• Call Chairwoman Angie Chen Button at 512-463-0790 and politely urge her to schedule HB 1549 for a prompt hearing. Say something like: "Hi, I'm [your name], a concerned Texan. I'm calling to ask Chairwoman Button to please schedule HB 1549, The Retail Decency Act, for a hearing. This bill protects Texas kids, and it deserves attention now."
• Your voice matters. It only takes a minute to make a call or send an email, but it could make a huge impact on getting legislation passed that will protect Texas kids. Let's tell Chairwoman Button and the committee: Texas families are counting on you. Schedule The Retail Decency Act for a hearing today.

Thank you for taking action to protect Texas kids!

Download and read the petition

In liberty and God's grace,

Christin Bentley
SD-1 State Republican Executive Committeewoman
Chair, Subcommittee: Stop Sexualizing Texas Kids