TEXAS SENATOR CHRIS HARRIS ANNOUNCES INTENTION TO FILE CAYLEE'S LAW

Austin, Texas — Senator Chris Harris (R-Arlington) today announced his intention to introduce legislation to make it a state felony for a parent or legal guardian who fails to report a child missing in a timely manner.

This law comes in light of the tragic case of Caylee Anthony and the misleading information her mother, Casey Anthony, presented to officials.

Current Texas law simply provides a Class A Misdemeanor for knowingly failing to report abuse or neglect. It does not provide a penalty for failure to report a missing child or death of a child.

"This law will discourage behavior like that seen in the case of Casey Anthony. It is shocking that there is nothing in the Texas law that requires a parent to report a missing child," said Harris. "In a missing persons case, time is essential and every second counts."

As Chair of the Texas Senate Jurisprudence Committee and longtime family law attorney, Senator Harris has extensive knowledge of the Family Code. Harris has been a advocate for children and family values since 1985 when he was first sworn in to office.

"We need stronger laws in Texas to ensure the rights and protection of our children."

Senator Harris represents Senate District 9 covering portions of Dallas, Denton & Tarrant Counties.