Texas Senate Bill SB2161

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to creating the criminal offenses of providing material support or resources to a foreign terrorist organization and engaging in terrorist activities.

Impact

The enactment of SB2161 represents a significant shift in state law concerning terrorism-related offenses. By delineating specific acts that constitute support for terrorist organizations and escalating the penalties for engaging in related criminal activities, the bill aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding counter-terrorism efforts in Texas. This can lead to stiffer sentences for individuals involved in serious crimes associated with terrorism, reflecting the state’s commitment to national security.

Summary

Senate Bill 2161 introduces new criminal offenses aimed at combatting support for foreign terrorist organizations and engaging in terrorist activities. The bill amends the Texas Penal Code, specifically by adding Chapter 72, which formalizes the definition of a 'foreign terrorist organization' and outlines the implications of providing material support to such entities. Under the proposed law, individuals who knowingly provide material support would face severe penal consequences, categorized as felonies of the first degree.

Contention

Debate around SB2161 hinges on concerns over the potential consequences for civil liberties and the scope of the definitions used within the bill. Critics argue that the expansive definitions of 'material support' and 'engaging in terrorist activities' may unintentionally criminalize a range of legitimate behaviors and expressions of political dissent. Proponents, however, assert that the bill is necessary to protect against threats posed by organized terrorism and that the robust penalties are warranted given the serious nature of such crimes.