Texas House Bill HB5414

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/14/25

Caption

Relating to certain criminal conduct involving agricultural land, including the justified use of force or deadly force to protect agricultural land from that conduct, and to civil liability arising out of certain justified threats to use force or deadly force; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5414 would amend several sections of the Penal Code and the Civil Practice and Remedies Code, thereby influencing how liability and justification for force are evaluated in Texas. It provides explicit immunity from civil liability for those who utilize or threaten force in alignment with the standards set forth in the legislation. By doing so, the bill seeks to bolster protections for agriculture, a vital sector of the Texas economy, by ensuring farmers and landowners can defend their properties against interference.

Summary

House Bill 5414 aims to address certain criminal conduct associated with agricultural land, specifically emphasizing the justified use of force, including deadly force, to protect such land from unlawful interference. The bill establishes legal grounds for property owners to protect their agricultural property from threats or harm by permitting them to use force when they reasonably believe it is necessary to do so. This creates a legal framework for individuals to safeguard their agricultural interests without facing civil liability under specific conditions.

Contention

The introduction of HB 5414 may spark discussions regarding the balance between property rights and public safety. Critics could argue that broadening the scope for using deadly force in defense of agricultural land might pose risks to public safety, especially in rural communities where such incidents could escalate quickly. Supporters, however, contend that the bill is crucial for ensuring that landowners have the means to protect their livelihoods from increasing threats, particularly as agricultural land is often vulnerable to vandalism and trespassing.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Civil Practice And Remedies Code

• Chapter 83. Use Of Force Or Deadly Force
  • Section: New Section

Penal Code

• Chapter 9. Justification Excluding Criminal Responsibility
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 22. Assaultive Offenses
  • Section: New Section