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TX HB716
Bill
Status
11/12/2024
Primary Sponsor
Jolanda Jones
Click for details
AI Summary
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Changes the base penalty for failing to comply with a fire marshal's order from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class C misdemeanor, while expanding who can be charged from just "owner or occupant" to any "person" subject to the order
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Establishes enhanced penalties: Class A misdemeanor if the violation results in bodily injury or death, Class B misdemeanor for a second offense, and state jail felony for third or subsequent offenses
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Applies to counties with a population of 4 million or more, and counties with 650,000+ population adjacent to a county of 4 million or more (targeting Harris County and surrounding areas)
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Authorizes commissioners courts in qualifying counties to grant county-employed peace officers who are certified fire inspectors the authority to issue citations for fire marshal order violations in unincorporated areas
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Peace officers issuing citations under this authority cannot arrest individuals; however, courts may issue arrest warrants if cited persons fail to appear on their court date
Legislative Description
Relating to the offense of failure to comply with an order from a fire marshal and the authority of certain county peace officers to issue citations for certain violations; changing a criminal penalty.
County Government
Last Action
Referred to s/c on County & Regional Government by Speaker
3/4/2025