Texas Senate Bill SB65

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to increasing the criminal penalty prescribed for certain acts of official oppression.

Impact

One of the primary effects of SB65 is the increased accountability for public servants, particularly licensed peace officers. By upgrading the severity of consequences for actions that threaten public safety or integrity, specifically when bodily harm is involved, the bill seeks to deter misconduct among officials. This enforcement amplifies the emphasis on lawful conduct among individuals in positions of authority, which could potentially lead to broader public confidence in law enforcement agencies.

Summary

Senate Bill 65 aims to revise the penalties associated with certain acts of official oppression within the state of Texas. Specifically, it amends Section 39.03 of the Penal Code, increasing the severity of penalties based on the nature of the act and the status of the perpetrator. The bill categorizes the offense as a Class A misdemeanor under regular circumstances but escalates this to a felony of the third degree if a public servant intentionally impairs the accuracy of data reported to the Texas Education Agency. Such changes signify a significant shift in how acts of official misconduct are treated under Texas law.

Contention

Despite its intended purpose, the bill has been met with mixed responses. Critics may argue that while accountability is essential, elevating penalties could also lead to unintended consequences, such as overcharging or over-prosecuting individuals in situations that may require discretion. Supporters, on the other hand, maintain that increased penalties are necessary to ensure that public servants are held to the highest standards, especially in a climate where trust in law enforcement is under scrutiny.