The bill, H.B. No. 170, amends the Civil Practice and Remedies Code to provide civil immunity for defendants who use or threaten to use justified force or deadly force as defined under Chapter 9 of the Penal Code. Specifically, it establishes that a defendant is immune from civil liability for personal injury or death resulting from such actions. Additionally, it creates a presumption of justification and immunity from liability if a grand jury declines to indict the defendant or if a related criminal charge is dismissed or results in acquittal.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section that entitles defendants found immune under the amended Section 83.001 to recover reasonable attorney's fees, court costs, lost income, and other expenses incurred in connection with the legal action. The changes will apply only to causes of action that accrue on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 83.001, Penal Code 9.06 (Penal Code 9, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 83)
House Committee Report: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 83.001 (Penal Code 9, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 83)
Engrossed: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 83.001 (Penal Code 9, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 83)