The bill, H.B. No. 288, proposes the creation of a new criminal offense in Texas related to the operation of premises for unlawful controlled substance consumption. It introduces Section 481.142 to the Health and Safety Code, defining the offense as occurring when a person who owns, rents, leases, manages, or controls a premises knowingly allows individuals to use controlled substances in violation of the law. The bill outlines specific actions that constitute the offense, including operating the premises for such purposes, profiting from the operation, or making the premises available for use, regardless of whether compensation is received.

The offense is classified as a felony of the second degree, and the bill clarifies that if the conduct also violates other laws, the individual may be prosecuted under this section, the other law, or both. The proposed law is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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