S.B. No. 3031 amends the Penal Code regarding the punishment for aggravated assault, elevating certain offenses to a felony of the first degree under specific circumstances. The bill specifies that an aggravated assault is a second-degree felony unless it involves the use of a deadly weapon that causes serious bodily injury to certain individuals, such as family members or public servants, or if the assault is committed in retaliation against witnesses or public servants. Additionally, the bill introduces new criteria for first-degree felony charges, including instances where the actor is inside or en route to or from a motor vehicle and discharges a firearm recklessly, causing injury or damage, or places someone in fear of imminent serious bodily injury.

The bill also clarifies that the changes in law will only apply 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. This transition provision allows for a clear distinction between the old and new legal standards for aggravated assault.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 22.02 (Penal Code 22)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 22.02 (Penal Code 22)
Engrossed: Penal Code 22.02 (Penal Code 22)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 22.02 (Penal Code 22)
Enrolled: Penal Code 22.02 (Penal Code 22)