S.B. No. 1980 aims to enhance the criminal penalties for assault against specific public servants and to address the prosecution of interference with their public duties. The bill amends Sections 22.01 and 38.15 of the Penal Code, introducing new classifications for misdemeanors based on the victim's status as a peace officer, community supervision and corrections department officer, or emergency services personnel. Specifically, it establishes that assault against these individuals while they are performing their duties will be classified as a Class B misdemeanor. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the presumption of knowledge regarding the victim's status as a public servant applies when the victim is identifiable by their uniform or badge.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the language regarding interference with public duties, expanding the definition to include community supervision and corrections department officers alongside peace officers. It also introduces a rebuttable presumption in prosecutions for interference, indicating that if an individual intentionally disseminates personal information about a peace officer or their family, it can be presumed that they are interfering with the officer's duties. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to offenses committed after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 22.01, Penal Code 38.15 (Penal Code 38, Penal Code 22)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 22.01, Penal Code 38.15 (Penal Code 38, Penal Code 22)
Engrossed: Penal Code 22.01, Penal Code 38.15 (Penal Code 38, Penal Code 22)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 22.01, Penal Code 38.15 (Penal Code 38, Penal Code 22)