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TX SB2570

Bill

Status

Passed

6/20/2025

Primary Sponsor

Peter Flores

Click for details

Origin

Senate

89th Legislature Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Adds Section 9.55 to the Texas Penal Code establishing legal justification for correctional facility guards and peace officers to use less-lethal force weapons while performing official duties

  • Defines "less-lethal force weapon" as projectile weapons designed to temporarily incapacitate while minimizing serious injury risk, chemical dispensing devices, striking devices, and stun guns

  • Justifies use of such weapons when the guard or officer reasonably believes the force was necessary to accomplish official duties and the use substantially complies with their training

  • Applies only to offenses committed on or after the effective date; prior offenses remain governed by former law

  • Takes effect immediately with two-thirds legislative vote, otherwise September 1, 2025; passed Senate 20-11 on April 28, 2025 and House 101-35 on May 22, 2025

Legislative Description

Relating to a legal justification for the use of force with a less-lethal force weapon by a correctional facility guard or a peace officer.

Criminal Procedure

Last Action

Effective immediately

6/20/2025

Committee Referrals

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs4/30/2025
Criminal Justice4/3/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available