The bill, H.B. No. 1572, aims to enhance penalties for mail theft and certain criminal offenses against employees or contractors of common carriers or delivery services while they are delivering mail. Key amendments include the insertion of new legal language that classifies offenses against employees or contractors of common carriers or delivery services as felonies, particularly when the assault occurs during the performance of their duties related to mail delivery. Additionally, the bill establishes a presumption that an individual in possession of mail addressed to at least five persons, other than themselves, is engaging in criminal conduct unless they are acting within their professional capacity as a delivery service employee or contractor.

The bill also modifies existing legal definitions and penalties related to assault and mail theft. It specifies that offenses involving mail theft will be categorized based on the number of addressees affected, with increased penalties for larger numbers of appropriated mail. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that if the appropriated mail contains identifying information and is intended to facilitate identity theft, the penalties will be escalated. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to offenses committed after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 22.01, Penal Code 22.02, Penal Code 31.20 (Penal Code 31, Penal Code 22)