The bill amends Section 20.05(a) of the Penal Code regarding the offense of smuggling of persons. It specifies that a person commits an offense if they knowingly use a means of conveyance to transport an individual with the intent to conceal them from law enforcement or to evade arrest. Additionally, the bill modifies the language concerning the encouragement or inducement of individuals to enter or remain in the country unlawfully, replacing the previous phrasing with a more straightforward reference to violations of state or federal law.

The changes made by this bill will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Offenses that occurred prior to this date will continue to be governed by the law in effect at that time, ensuring that any elements of an offense that took place before the effective date are treated under the former law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 20.05 (Penal Code 20)