Texas House Bill HB3499

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/3/23

Caption

Relating to foreign terrorist organizations, including the acquisition of title to real property by, the compilation of information regarding, certain civil actions brought against, and the prosecution of certain organized crime offenses involving a foreign terrorist organization.

Impact

If enacted, HB 3499 would significantly impact Texas state laws concerning property rights and criminal operator regulations. By preventing foreign terrorist organizations from acquiring real property, the bill aims to diminish their ability to establish a physical presence, which potentially facilitates more illegal activities. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for recognizing such organizations within the legal framework, thereby allowing law enforcement agencies to perform more efficiently by gathering and maintaining intelligence on their operations. The bill represents a considerable shift in how the state addresses both the presence and activities of such entities, enhancing legal instruments available to tackle organized crime.

Summary

House Bill 3499 is an act that addresses the activities of foreign terrorist organizations in Texas. It specifically prohibits these organizations from acquiring title to real property within the state. This bill aims to enhance the state's ability to combat criminal activities associated with foreign terrorist groups by amending various sections of the Penal Code and Civil Practice and Remedies Code concerning public nuisances and gang activities. Additionally, it stipulates the compilation of information regarding civil actions connected to such organizations and organized crime offenses related to them. The bill seeks to tighten regulations and promote public safety by ensuring that foreign terrorist organizations are not allowed to hold property, which could be used to facilitate their operations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3499 appears to be largely positive among proponents who view it as a necessary measure to protect public safety and uphold the rule of law. Supporters argue that the regulation of real property transactions involving foreign terrorist organizations is crucial in preventing them from bolstering their operational capabilities. However, some concerns may exist regarding the implications for innocent foreign entities or individuals and how these definitions might be interpreted or enforced. The general consensus among legislators is that the bill serves the greater good by making it more difficult for groups that threaten state security to establish a foothold in Texas.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise concerning the definitions of 'foreign terrorist organizations' as outlined within the bill and how these definitions might lead to broader implications for legitimate foreign business entities. Additionally, while the bill seeks to improve public safety, critics may argue that it could inadvertently lead to the targeting or stigmatization of specific communities. Concerns about the general enforcement procedures and potential impacts on property rights for individuals associated—albeit innocently—with these organizations may also prompt debates about the bill's broader social implications. Legislators will need to address these concerns to foster a balanced approach to the issues at hand.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Civil Practice And Remedies Code

• Chapter 125. Common And Public Nuisances
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 065
  • Section: 069
  • Section: 070

Code Of Criminal Procedure

• Chapter 67. Compilation Of Information Pertaining To Combinations And Criminal Street Gangs
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 051
  • Section: 102
  • Section: 251
  • Section: 255

Penal Code

• Chapter 71. Organized Crime
  • Section: 01
  • Section: 022
  • Section: 023
  • Section: New Section

Property Code

• Chapter 5. Conveyances
  • Section: New Section