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TX HB3869
Bill
Status
3/5/2025
Primary Sponsor
Sam Harless
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AI Summary
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Elevates assault against utility employees or agents to a third-degree felony (normally a Class A misdemeanor) when the victim is performing job duties in an area under a declared state of disaster or emergency evacuation order
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Increases harassment penalties against utility workers from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor when committed in disaster or evacuated areas during the worker's job duties
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Defines "utility" broadly to include electric utilities, telecommunications providers, cable/video service providers, gas utilities, oil/gas pipelines, electric cooperatives, and municipally owned utilities
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Disaster declarations covered include those made by the U.S. President under the Stafford Act, the Texas Governor, or local political subdivision presiding officers
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Applies only to offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025
Legislative Description
Relating to increasing the criminal penalties for the offenses of assault and harassment committed against certain employees or agents of a utility and committed in a disaster area or evacuated area.
Disaster Preparedness & Relief
Last Action
Referred directly to subcommittee by chair
4/1/2025