The bill amends the Texas Penal Code to enhance the prosecution of the offense of smuggling persons. It introduces new definitions for terms such as "cultural resource site or area," "natural area," "open space area," and "park," which are aligned with the meanings assigned in Section 24.001 of the Parks and Wildlife Code. Additionally, the bill expands the scope of the offense by including the act of assisting, guiding, or directing individuals to enter or remain on specified areas, including cultural resource sites, natural areas, open space areas, parks, or agricultural land, without the effective consent of the owner.

The changes in the law will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Offenses that occurred prior to this date will be governed by the previous law, ensuring that any elements of an offense that took place before the effective date are treated under the former legal framework.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 20.01, Penal Code 20.05 (Penal Code 20)