AUSTIN, Texas – A proposed bill named after Audrii Cunningham aims to add child grooming to the list of crimes that would require a violator to register as a sex offender.
WATCH: Finding Audrii: A story of tragic loss and lasting legacy
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The law, nicknamed ‘Audrii’s Law’ was submitted by Rep. Trent Ashby for consideration in the 2025 Texas Legislative session.
Formally known as HB 2000, the bill aims to require sexual offender registration for those convicted of child grooming, just as those convicted of other serious sexual offenses.
Read Audrii’s Law
Understanding the Proposed Changes
Under the existing law, various offenses such as sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, and indecency with a child require offenders to register as sex offenders.
Audrii’s Law, however, proposes to add child grooming to this list of reportable convictions.
Child grooming involves establishing an emotional connection with a child to lower their inhibitions for the purpose of sexual exploitation.
By categorizing this as a reportable offense, the bill aims to close a critical gap in the current legal framework.
Who Is Audrii Cunningham?
Audrii Cunningham became the focus of a days-long search after the 11-year-old girl from Livingston, Texas never made it on the school bus in February 2024.
After an exhaustive search, which included resources from local law enforcement, the State of Texas, and even the FBI, Audrii was found dead in the Trinity River, just downstream of Lake Livingston.
Her killer lived in the young girl’s backyard - literally. Don Steven McDougal was taken in by Audrii’s grandparents, who she lived with.
McDougal admitted to killing Audrii when he accepted a plea deal in January 2025 to spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Court records show McDougal had a lengthy criminal history, which Audrii’s grandparents overlooked as they believed he was looking to start a new chapter of his life.
Those crimes include a 2007 court case in Brazoria County where he was charged with indecency with a child. However, McDougal pleaded down to the charge, meaning he never was required to register as a sex offender.
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Audrii’s family says they ran McDougal’s name through the sex offender registry, thinking they were protecting their family.
They didn’t know about McDougal’s plea deal.
Push For Change
Audrii’s death sent shockwaves through the Livingston community and the Houston area. Her story captivated the nation.
In the months following her death, the family was focused on prosecuting her killer.
MORE: Audrii’s Law introduced to expand sex offender registry requirements in Texas
Now, with the help of Crime Stoppers of Houston, they are focused on changing Texas law to prevent other convicted criminals from ‘slipping through the cracks’ after pleading down charges.
Texas State Rep. Trent Ashby (R-TX 9), who represents Texas’s 9th Congressional District which includes Livingston, filed House Bill 2000 on January 22, 2025.
An identical bill, Senate Bill 1193, was filed by Texas Sen. Robert Nichols (R- TX 3).
Why This Bill Matters
The inclusion of child grooming in the sex offender registry is a significant step in enhancing the protection of children in Texas.
Grooming is often a precursor to more severe forms of abuse, and recognizing it as a reportable offense underscores the seriousness of the crime.
This legislative change reflects a growing awareness of the tactics used by offenders to exploit vulnerable individuals and emphasizes the need for comprehensive legal measures to address such behavior.
CLOSER LOOK: The hidden dangers of lapsed sex offender registrations
The major change proposed by this bill is the expansion of the sex offender registry to include those convicted of child grooming.
This means that individuals found guilty of this offense will be required to register, making their information accessible to the public and law enforcement.
This transparency is crucial for community safety, as it allows residents to be informed about potential risks in their neighborhoods.
It could have saved Audrii’s life when her grandparents searched for McDougal in the sex offender registry.
By requiring offenders to register, the bill enhances the ability of families and communities to protect themselves.
MORE: ‘I’d never do anything to hurt her:’ Grandmother of Audrii Cunninham says accused killer lied to her
The registry serves as a tool for parents and guardians to stay informed about individuals who may pose a threat to their children. Additionally, it aids law enforcement in monitoring offenders and preventing future crimes.
This proactive approach is vital in creating safer environments for children and reducing the risk of exploitation.
The Next Steps
Audrii’s Law was filed on January 22, just as the 89th Legislature’s regular session was getting underway.
The regular session runs from January 14 through June 2, but there’s a process the bill has to go through.
First, it will be referred to a committee.
After the bill passes a committee, it will be scheduled for debate by the full chamber. Then the majority of lawmakers have to approve the bill twice for it to pass.
However, before it’s sent to the governor’s desk, the bill needs to go through the same process in the other chamber, in this case, the State Senate.
If approved and signed by the Governor, the law would take effect on September 1, 2025.
KPRC 2 is tracking Audrii’s Law and will regularly post updates when lawmakers make actions on the legislation.
