H.B. No. 2927 proposes to increase the criminal penalties for peace officers who fail to report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of elderly individuals or persons with disabilities. The bill amends Section 48.052(a) of the Human Resources Code, establishing that a person commits an offense if they knowingly fail to report such incidents. While the offense is generally classified as a Class A misdemeanor, it escalates to a state jail felony under specific circumstances, including when the victim is a person with an intellectual disability residing in certain facilities and has suffered serious bodily injury, or when the offender is a peace officer who encountered the victim while performing their official duties.

The bill clarifies that the changes in law will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the previous law, ensuring that any elements of the offense that took place prior to the effective date are treated under the former legal framework. This legislative change aims to enhance accountability among peace officers regarding their duty to report suspected abuse or neglect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Human Resources Code 48.052 (Human Resources Code 48)