S.B. No. 456 amends the Penal Code and the Occupations Code in Texas to enhance penalties related to the illegal 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 such violations. 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 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 surrounding the sale and use of human organs, thereby promoting ethical medical practices and protecting public health.

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)