The bill, H.B. No. 316, aims to establish a new criminal offense related to the interference with motor fuel metering devices and unattended payment terminals. It introduces Section 16.021 to the Penal Code, defining actions that constitute an offense, such as intentionally disrupting the operation of these devices, modifying them, or possessing and selling devices designed to manipulate them unlawfully. The bill specifies that such offenses are classified as a felony of the second degree. Additionally, it provides an affirmative defense for certain individuals, such as service technicians and law enforcement officers, who may possess manipulation devices while performing their official duties.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 71.02(a) of the Penal Code to include the newly created offense under Section 16.021 as part of the list of offenses that can be associated with organized criminal activity. This inclusion broadens the scope of activities that can be prosecuted under organized crime statutes. The changes in law will apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

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