House Bill No. 3507 amends Section 31.03(e) of the Penal Code, which outlines the classifications and penalties for theft offenses in Texas. The bill introduces new criteria for determining the severity of theft charges based on the number of prior convictions. Specifically, it establishes that a state jail felony can be charged if the defendant has been previously convicted two or more times but less than five times for any grade of theft. Additionally, it creates a third-degree felony classification for thefts involving property valued at $30,000 or more but less than $150,000, or if the defendant has been previously convicted five or more times but less than ten times for any grade of theft.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the penalties for theft involving property valued at less than $2,500, increasing the severity of the charge based on the number of prior convictions. It also clarifies the definitions of certain types of stolen property, such as livestock and controlled substances, and their associated penalties. The changes in law will apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the previous law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 31.03 (Penal Code 31)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 31.03 (Penal Code 31)