S.B. No. 1379 proposes to increase the criminal penalties for forgery in Texas by amending several sections of the Penal Code. The bill reclassifies the severity of offenses based on the nature of the forged document and the value of the property or service involved. Specifically, it establishes that forgery offenses can range from a Class B misdemeanor for property or services valued under $100 to a felony of the first degree for values of $150,000 or more. Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that elevates the offense to a higher category if committed against an elderly individual.

The amendments include significant changes to the classification of forgery offenses, such as changing the classification from a Class A misdemeanor to a state jail felony for certain types of forgery. The bill also clarifies the definitions of various degrees of felonies based on the value of the property or service involved, with specific thresholds outlined. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to offenses committed on or after that date, ensuring that any offenses occurring prior will be governed by the existing law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 32.21 (Penal Code 32)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 32.21 (Penal Code 32)
Engrossed: Penal Code 32.21 (Penal Code 32)