Summer Willis and Virginia Giuffre's Family Demand Action on Sexual Assault Legislation at Texas Capitol

Advocates Rally for Change in Texas Sexual Assault Laws

On May 19, 2025, a poignant press conference took place at the Texas State Capitol, where Summer Willis, a courageous advocate and rape survivor, united with the family of Virginia Roberts Giuffre. This powerful gathering of survivors aimed to urge Texas lawmakers to take immediate action on House Bill 3073, also known as the Summer Willis Act. This crucial piece of legislation is poised to redefine consent in Texas and close the legal loopholes that prevent the prosecution of rape cases involving voluntary intoxication.

The Importance of House Bill 3073

House Bill 3073, which garnered overwhelming support in the House with a vote of 129 to 4, aims to ensure that survivors like Summer Willis are given the justice they deserve. Gov. Greg Abbott, alongside his Sexual Assault Task Force, has expressed support for the bill. However, the legislation is currently stalled in the Senate, where Sen. Pete Flores has not yet scheduled it for a vote. With the looming deadline of May 20, 2025, pressure is mounting for lawmakers to take action to prevent the bill from dying in committee.

Willis, who endured a horrific assault during her time as a sophomore at the University of Texas, shared the painful reality that survivors face due to outdated legislation. During a fraternity party, her drink was spiked, leading to her assault. Under current Texas law, because she had voluntarily consumed alcohol, neither of her attackers was prosecuted. "Texas, I can't begin to describe what survivors go through after we survive," said Willis. "And I don't have words strong enough to describe what it feels like to know our state offers loopholes to rapists and locked doors to us."

Support from the Giuffre Family and Other Survivors

Joining Summer at the press conference were members of the Giuffre family, who expressed their solidarity in the fight for legislative change. Sky and Amanda Roberts, along with Lannette and Danny Wilson—siblings of the late Virginia Giuffre—spoke passionately about their sister’s advocacy for justice for all survivors of sexual assault. "We firmly stand by Summer Willis and call on the Texas State Senate to take immediate action on HB 3073," they proclaimed. Their message reinforced the importance of closing existing gaps in the law that have failed to protect survivors.

Survivors like Dr. Lavinia Masters, instrumental in passing the Lavinia Masters Act, also lent their voices, emphasizing the need for stronger protections and accountability within Texas's legal framework. Other notable advocates supporting the bill include Sophia Rose Centurioni, the reigning Miss Highland Park Teen of 2025, who is also a survivor and vocal advocate.

A Call to Action

As part of their advocacy, Willis and other supporters urged Texas residents to contact their Senators and demand that the Criminal Justice Committee prioritize a hearing for HB 3073. With the governor's backing and the bill’s strong support from the public—including high-profile endorsements from figures like activist Monica Lewinsky and actress Julianna Margulies—the momentum is building for change.

"Summer's bravery and vulnerability in sharing her story are constant reminders that we must always stand for the right thing," said one of the family members of Giuffre, reflecting the broader fight for survivors’ rights.

The press conference concluded with a sense of urgency, highlighting the critical nature of this legislative movement and its implications for survivors across the state. As the Texas legislature only convenes every two years, this moment could define the future for countless individuals facing sexual violence in Texas.

The press conference was held at 12:30 PM at the Texas State Capitol located at 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX. The rally is a call not just for changing laws but for creating a society that supports victims and holds perpetrators accountable. Time is of the essence, and advocates implore lawmakers to act decisively by the looming deadline.