H.B. No. 2596 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to expand the scope of protective orders for victims of certain offenses, specifically including burglary offenses alongside existing categories such as sexual assault, stalking, and trafficking. The bill modifies the heading of Subchapter A, Chapter 7B, to reflect this inclusion and updates the criteria for individuals eligible to file for protective orders. Notably, it allows victims of burglary offenses punishable under specific sections of the Penal Code to apply for protective orders, thereby broadening the protections available to victims.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a protective order application has not been filed prior to a conviction or deferred adjudication, the state attorney is required to file one on behalf of the victim. It also clarifies that a protective order may be issued for the duration of the lives of both the offender and the victim if the offender is convicted of certain offenses and is required to register as a sex offender. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and aims to enhance the legal protections for victims of various serious crimes.