TX HB3553

Amends Section 9.42 of the Texas Penal Code to remove the "nighttime" restriction for using deadly force to prevent theft or criminal mischief, allowing such force at any time of day

Removes the "nighttime" limitation for using deadly force to prevent a fleeing suspect from escaping after committing theft

Retains existing requirements that deadly force is only justified when the person reasonably believes the property cannot be protected by other means, or that non-deadly force would expose someone to substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury

Updates gendered language in the statute from "he" to "the person" throughout

Takes effect September 1, 2025, and applies only to offenses committed on or after that date