H.B. No. 2733 amends the Texas Penal Code regarding the offenses of prohibited barratry and solicitation of professional employment. The bill specifies that a person commits an offense if they knowingly solicit employment through various means, including in person, by telephone, or through electronic communications such as social media, particularly if these communications are false, misleading, or deceptive. Additionally, it outlines that licensed professionals, such as attorneys and healthcare providers, commit an offense if they provide unsolicited written communications or solicitations to individuals who have not sought their services, especially in sensitive contexts like personal injury or wrongful death cases.

The bill also clarifies that the changes in law will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, meaning that any offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the previous law. This ensures that individuals are aware of the legal standards applicable to their actions based on the timing of the offense. Overall, H.B. No. 2733 aims to strengthen regulations against unethical solicitation practices in professional fields.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 38.12 (Penal Code 38)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 38.12 (Penal Code 38)
Engrossed: Penal Code 38.12 (Penal Code 38)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 38.12 (Penal Code 38)
Enrolled: Penal Code 38.12 (Penal Code 38)