House Bill No. 368 seeks to enhance protections for individuals under protective orders by introducing explicit prohibitions against the remote control of electronic devices that could affect the residence, vehicle, or property of the protected individuals or their family members. The bill amends the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Family Code to criminalize such actions, alongside existing prohibitions against unauthorized tracking or monitoring of personal property. Additionally, it expands the definitions of offenses related to family violence and harassment, including harm or interference with pets or assistance animals belonging to protected individuals.

The bill also streamlines legal language by removing outdated phrases, such as "and," to improve clarity. It specifies that the new provisions will apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any protective orders or legal actions taken prior to this date will be governed by the laws in effect at that time. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding protective orders and safeguard individuals from potential technological abuses in domestic violence situations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 6.501, Family Code 85.021, Family Code 85.022, Penal Code 25.07 (Family Code 85, Penal Code 25, Family Code 6)
House Committee Report: Family Code 6.501, Family Code 85.021, Family Code 85.022, Penal Code 25.07 (Family Code 85, Penal Code 25, Family Code 6)
Engrossed: Family Code 6.501, Family Code 85.021, Family Code 85.022, Penal Code 25.07 (Family Code 85, Penal Code 25, Family Code 6)