Senate Bill No. 988 aims to increase the criminal penalties for offenses related to criminal mischief that impair retail motor fuel pumps or electric vehicle charging stations. The bill amends Section 28.03 of the Penal Code, introducing a new felony of the third degree for individuals who cause impairment or disruption to these facilities, regardless of the pecuniary loss involved. This addition is marked by the insertion of new legal language that defines "retail motor fuel pump" and "electric vehicle charging station," clarifying the types of equipment affected by this legislation.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing classifications of criminal mischief offenses, including the deletion of certain provisions and the insertion of new criteria for penalties based on the nature of the offense. The changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the previous law, ensuring that individuals are subject to the legal standards in place at the time of their actions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 28.03 (Penal Code 28)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 28.03 (Penal Code 28)
Engrossed: Penal Code 28.03 (Penal Code 28)