The bill, H.B. No. 2927, aims to increase the criminal penalties for peace officers who fail to report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of elderly individuals or persons with disabilities. It amends Section 48.052(a) of the Human Resources Code to specify that an offense is classified as a state jail felony if the individual being abused, neglected, or exploited is a person with an intellectual disability residing in certain facilities and the officer knew that serious bodily injury had occurred. Additionally, the bill establishes that if the actor is a peace officer who encountered the victim while performing their duties, the offense will also be classified as a state jail felony.

The changes introduced by this bill will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Any offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the previous law, ensuring that the former legal standards remain in effect for those cases. This legislative measure seeks to enhance accountability among peace officers in protecting vulnerable populations from abuse and neglect.

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