The bill, H.B. No. 2333, proposes amendments to the statutes of limitations for various felony offenses in Texas, specifically addressing crimes related to elections. It reenacts and amends Article 12.01 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, which outlines the time limits for presenting felony indictments. Notably, the bill introduces new categories of offenses that have no statute of limitations, including interference with child custody and certain burglaries related to sexual offenses. Additionally, it establishes a new ten-year limitation for felony offenses under the Election Code or those related to elections conducted in Texas.
The bill also makes several adjustments to existing categories and their corresponding time limits. For instance, it modifies the language regarding sexual assault and burglary offenses, clarifying the conditions under which these offenses are subject to specific limitations. Furthermore, it specifies that the changes in law will not apply to offenses where prosecution is already barred by limitation prior to the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding the prosecution of serious crimes, particularly those involving elections and vulnerable individuals.