S.B. No. 456 amends the Texas Penal Code and the Occupations Code to enhance penalties and regulations surrounding the purchase or sale of human organs. Specifically, it reclassifies offenses under Section 48.02(d) from a Class A misdemeanor to a state jail felony, thereby increasing the severity of the punishment for violations related to the illegal trade of human organs. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision in the Occupations Code, Section 164.0571, which mandates the revocation of a physician's license if they knowingly use a human organ obtained in violation of the amended Penal Code.

The changes outlined in this bill will only apply to offenses and conduct occurring on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Any offenses committed or conduct occurring prior to this date will be governed by the laws in effect at that time, ensuring that individuals are not retroactively penalized under the new provisions. This legislative action aims to strengthen the legal framework against the illegal organ trade and uphold ethical medical practices in Texas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 48.02 (Penal Code 48)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 48.02 (Penal Code 48)
Engrossed: Penal Code 48.02 (Penal Code 48)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 48.02 (Penal Code 48)
Enrolled: Penal Code 48.02 (Penal Code 48)