S.B. No. 1101 amends the Texas Penal Code to enhance the prosecution of the offense of smuggling persons. The bill introduces new definitions for terms such as "cultural resource site or area," "natural area," "open space area," and "park," which are defined according to Section 24.001 of the Parks and Wildlife Code. Additionally, it expands the criteria for committing an offense under Section 20.05(a) by including the act of assisting, guiding, or directing individuals to enter or remain on specified areas, including cultural resource sites and agricultural land, without the owner's consent.

The changes made by this Act will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Offenses that occurred prior to this date will be governed by the law in effect at the time of the offense, ensuring that the previous legal framework remains applicable for those cases.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 20.01, Penal Code 20.05 (Penal Code 20)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 20.01, Penal Code 20.05 (Penal Code 20)
Engrossed: Penal Code 20.01, Penal Code 20.05 (Penal Code 20)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 20.01, Penal Code 20.05 (Penal Code 20)