S.B. No. 482 amends the Penal Code to enhance penalties for offenses such as assault, harassment, and interference with public duties when these crimes are committed against certain employees or agents of utilities. The bill adds new categories to the list of offenses that can incur increased punishment, specifically including Section 31.03 and Section 38.15. It also expands the definition of individuals who are protected under these laws to include employees or agents of utilities while they are performing their duties. This change aims to provide greater protection for utility workers, recognizing their role in maintaining essential services.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "utility" to encompass various types of service providers, including electric utilities, telecommunications providers, gas utilities, and others as defined in the Utilities Code. The amendments also specify that the presumption of knowledge regarding the status of the victim applies to utility employees, similar to other public servants and emergency personnel. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to offenses committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 12.50, Penal Code 12.501, Penal Code 22.01, Penal Code 11.003, Penal Code 42.07 (Penal Code 42, Penal Code 22, Penal Code 12, Penal Code 11)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 12.50, Penal Code 12.501, Penal Code 22.01, Penal Code 11.003, Penal Code 42.07 (Penal Code 42, Penal Code 22, Penal Code 12, Penal Code 11)
Engrossed: Penal Code 22.01, Penal Code 11.003, Penal Code 42.07 (Penal Code 42, Penal Code 22, Penal Code 12, Penal Code 11)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 22.01, Penal Code 11.003, Penal Code 42.07 (Penal Code 42, Penal Code 22, Penal Code 12, Penal Code 11)
Enrolled: Penal Code 12.50, Penal Code 22.01, Penal Code 11.003, Penal Code 13.002, Penal Code 42.07 (Penal Code 11, Penal Code 42, Penal Code 13, Penal Code 22, Penal Code 12)