Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1273

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
4/8/09  
Voted on by Senate
4/23/09  
Out of House Committee
5/21/09  
Voted on by House
5/27/09  
Governor Action
6/19/09  
Bill Becomes Law
 
Enrolled
5/31/09  

Caption

Relating to creating an offense for interference with certain radio frequencies.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws governing property theft and introduces a new offense type for interference with radio frequencies crucial for emergency responders. By codifying penalties for interference that disrupts communication for law enforcement and emergency services, SB1273 reinforces the protection of essential services and technologies. The law aims to deter potential offenders from obstructing critical communication channels, thus ensuring a more reliable response framework during emergencies.

Summary

SB1273 aims to address issues related to the theft of specific electronic equipment and the interference with radio frequencies licensed to government entities. This legislation amends the Penal Code to enhance penalties for theft involving electronic equipment such as radios and computers that are used by law enforcement and emergency services. The bill categorizes various levels of theft based on the value of the property stolen, introducing specific classifications from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the crime.

Contention

Notably, the provisions in SB1273 around jamming or interfering with radio frequencies could lead to discussions regarding the balance between public safety and individual rights. While supporters may argue that such measures are necessary to safeguard emergency response operations, opponents might raise concerns about the implications for personal freedoms and the potential for overreach under the guise of law enforcement needs. This dichotomy presents a point of contention in the broader debate on safety versus liberty in legislative measures.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1402

Relating to the criminal penalties for certain criminal offenses.

TX SB465

Relating to certain criminal conduct involving a catalytic converter; creating a criminal offense; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB4598

Relating to catalytic converters, including criminal conduct involving catalytic converters; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a fee.

TX SB224

Relating to catalytic converters, including criminal conduct involving catalytic converters; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a fee.

TX SB293

Relating to penalties for intimidation and harassment of election officials and election interference; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB1772

Relating to the documentation required for the purchase of certain timber products; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1719

Relating to local option elections to legalize or prohibit the operation of eight-liners; imposing fees and issuing fee permits; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB4642

Relating to offenses involving the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances and the enforcement and prevention of those offenses; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3025

Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offenses of aggravated kidnapping, kidnapping, and interference with child custody.

TX SB1048

Relating to the documentation required for the purchase of certain timber products; creating a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.