Senate Bill No. 1208 proposes to increase the criminal penalty for the offense of interference with public duties in Texas. Specifically, it amends Section 38.15(b) of the Penal Code to classify this offense as a
state jail felony instead of a
Class B misdemeanor. This change reflects a significant escalation in the legal consequences for individuals found guilty of this offense.
The bill stipulates that the new classification will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Offenses occurring before this date will continue to be governed by the previous law, ensuring that individuals are subject to the legal standards in place at the time of their actions.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Penal Code 38.15 (Penal Code 38)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 38.15 (Penal Code 38)