H.B. No. 316 proposes the addition of a new criminal offense under Section 16.021 of the Penal Code, specifically targeting interference with motor fuel metering devices and unattended payment terminals. The bill defines key terms such as "motor fuel manipulation device," "motor fuel metering device," and "motor fuel unattended payment terminal." It establishes that a person commits an offense if they intentionally interfere with the operation of these devices, modify them, or manufacture and sell manipulation devices. The offense is classified as a felony of the second degree, with specific affirmative defenses outlined for certain individuals, such as service technicians and law enforcement officers acting within the scope of their duties.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 71.02(a) of the Penal Code to include the new 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 prosecutable offenses related to organized crime, reinforcing the state's commitment to combatting such activities. 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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