Texas House Bill HB1087

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of the offense of criminal trespass.

Impact

The impact of HB 1087 on state laws is significant, as it aims to establish more precise legal definitions and consequences for individuals who enter properties without consent. By amending subsections of Section 30.05 in the Penal Code, the bill seeks to address various aspects of property rights and trespassing incidents. The intention behind these changes is to provide law enforcement with clearer guidelines for prosecution and ensure that legal outcomes are consistent across similar trespassing cases.

Summary

House Bill 1087 focuses on amending the Texas Penal Code, specifically relating to the offense of criminal trespass. The bill seeks to clarify the definitions and conditions under which a person is deemed to have committed trespass on various types of properties, such as residential areas, agricultural land, and recreational vehicle parks. The modifications are intended to refine legal definitions, making it clearer how criminal liability is established in these situations. The bill aims to address grey areas in the law regarding what constitutes trespass without consent.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding HB 1087 may bring about contention regarding the balance between property rights and individual freedoms. Stakeholders such as property owners may support the stringent measures proposed, viewing them as essential for safeguarding their property. Conversely, civil rights advocates might express concerns, arguing that stricter definitions and penalties for trespass could lead to overreach and unjust criminalization of individuals who might inadvertently cross property lines, particularly in cases involving marginalized communities.