S.B. No. 517 aims to amend the Texas Penal Code regarding gambling offenses by redefining certain terms and increasing the penalties associated with these offenses. The bill introduces a new definition for "device," which encompasses all types of electronic, electromechanical, or mechanical contrivances. It also revises the definition of "gambling device" to clarify that it includes any device that offers an opportunity to obtain something of value based on chance, while excluding devices designed solely for amusement that reward players with noncash prizes. Additionally, the term "thing of value" is expanded to include various forms of property and benefits, such as gift cards.

Furthermore, the bill significantly increases the severity of penalties for gambling offenses by reclassifying them from Class A misdemeanors to felonies of the third degree. This change applies to multiple sections of the Penal Code, including those related to gambling offenses. The bill also repeals a specific section of the Penal Code and establishes that the new laws will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the previous laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 47.01, Occupations Code 2001.416 (Occupations Code 2001, Penal Code 47)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 47.01, Penal Code 47.03, Penal Code 47.04, Penal Code 47.05, Penal Code 47.06, Penal Code 47.02 (Occupations Code 2001, Penal Code 47)
Engrossed: Penal Code 47.01, Penal Code 47.03, Penal Code 47.04, Penal Code 47.05, Penal Code 47.06, Penal Code 47.02 (Occupations Code 2001, Penal Code 47)