The bill, H.B. No. 2383, aims to enhance penalties for offenses committed while using metal or body armor. It introduces new legal provisions to the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Penal Code. Specifically, it adds Section 17 to Article 42.01, requiring that judgments reflect any affirmative findings regarding the use of armor during the commission of an offense. Additionally, it establishes Article 42.01992, which mandates judges to make an affirmative finding if it is determined that the defendant used metal or body armor during the trial of certain offenses, specifically those punishable as Class A misdemeanors or higher, excluding first-degree felonies.

Furthermore, the bill adds Section 12.503 to the Penal Code, which stipulates that if an affirmative finding regarding the use of armor is made, the punishment for the offense will be escalated to the next highest category, with a specific increase in confinement for Class A misdemeanors to a minimum of 180 days. The changes will apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Offenses committed prior to this date will be governed by the existing law.

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