S.B. No. 1995 aims to combat unauthorized entry and occupancy of real property in Texas by establishing new criminal offenses and enhancing penalties for related crimes. The bill amends the Penal Code to categorize offenses based on the financial loss incurred, particularly emphasizing damages involving firearms or explosives. It introduces new sections that criminalize the submission of false documents in property transactions and the fraudulent sale, rental, or lease of residential real estate, with such fraudulent activities classified as a felony of the first degree.

Additionally, the bill creates Chapter 24B in the Property Code, detailing the process for property owners to request the immediate removal of unauthorized occupants by law enforcement. This chapter includes provisions for verifying complaints and occupant identities, as well as liability protections for law enforcement officials involved in the removal process. The legislation also clarifies that property owners or their agents are not liable for damages resulting from the removal of personal property under this chapter and allows individuals wrongfully removed to seek legal recourse for recovery and damages. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, pending a two-thirds vote from both legislative houses, or on September 1, 2025, if the vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 28.03, Penal Code 30.05 (Penal Code 30, Penal Code 28)