Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1123

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of the offense of theft of petroleum product.

Impact

The proposed changes will have direct implications for how theft of petroleum products is prosecuted in Texas. By elevating the penalties for repeat offenders and those who engage in organized crime, the bill is anticipated to serve as a deterrent. Furthermore, the amendment clarifies that if an individual is caught stealing petroleum and is also involved in any other illicit conduct, they can face charges under multiple laws. This aligns with broader law enforcement goals to tackle organized crime and improve the integrity of state resources.

Summary

SB1123 aims to amend the Texas Penal Code by introducing stricter penalties for the theft of petroleum products. The bill proposes enhancements to punishment for offenders engaged in organized theft, those with prior convictions, and individuals who are armed during the commission of the theft. Specifically, it increases the classification of the crime to the next higher category under certain circumstances, such as involvement in a conspiracy to commit petroleum theft. This legislative effort seeks to address the growing concerns surrounding theft of valuable petroleum resources and to deter such criminal activities.

Contention

While the bill seeks to toughen laws against petroleum theft, there may be concerns regarding the increased punitive measures. Critics could argue that the bill may disproportionately affect lower-level offenders who may not be involved in organized criminal networks. Moreover, the clause allowing for the prosecution under multiple laws could be perceived as overly punitive, sparking debates about the balance between deterrence and fair sentencing practices. Legal experts might also raise questions about the adequacy of evidence required to prove factors such as conspiracy or possession of a firearm during the commission of the offense.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

  • Chapter 31. Theft
    • Section: 19

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB279

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of the offense of trafficking of persons.

TX SB466

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of the offense of trafficking of persons.

TX SB432

Relating to the prosecution of and punishment for theft of a catalytic converter; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB505

Relating to the prosecution of and punishment for the criminal offense of hindering the investigation or prosecution of certain sexual offenses committed against a child; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB1527

Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3451

Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1316

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of certain criminal offenses involving the smuggling of persons or the operation of a stash house; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB4779

Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offense of organized retail theft.

TX SB1185

Relating to the punishment for the offense of burglary of a vehicle involving theft of a firearm; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB1408

Relating to changing the elements of the offense of possession or promotion of lewd visual material depicting a child and to the prosecution and punishment of that offense and the severability of certain related penal laws.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.