H.B. No. 4223 seeks to enhance the legal framework surrounding unauthorized entry and occupancy of real property in Texas by introducing new criminal offenses and adjusting penalties for related crimes. The bill amends Section 28.03 of the Penal Code to redefine misdemeanor and felony classifications based on the pecuniary loss associated with property damage. It also adds new offenses under Sections 32.56 and 32.57, targeting the presentation of false documents related to real property and the fraudulent sale, rental, or lease of residential real property, with penalties ranging from Class A misdemeanors to state jail felonies depending on the severity of the offense.

Furthermore, the bill establishes Chapter 24B in the Property Code, which outlines a process for property owners to request the immediate removal of unauthorized occupants by law enforcement. This includes conditions for sheriffs to act, such as verifying ownership and serving notice to vacate, while allowing sheriffs to charge a fee for their services and providing liability protections for both sheriffs and property owners in wrongful removal cases. The Act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, ensuring that offenses committed before this date will be governed by the existing law, thereby providing a clear transition period for individuals and law enforcement.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 28.03 (Penal Code 28)