Bill > HB674

This bill modifies several sections of the Texas Penal Code to increase criminal penalties for offenses committed while intentionally avoiding law enforcement checkpoints or during the course of human trafficking. Specifically, the bill adds provisions that elevate the severity of certain offenses (such as assault, criminal trespass, and burglary) to third-degree felonies if the offender intentionally avoids a federal or state law enforcement checkpoint or commits the offense in connection with human trafficking. The bill also creates a legal presumption that a person transporting individuals is acting knowingly and with intent to conceal someone from law enforcement if they deliberately avoid a checkpoint. These changes aim to provide law enforcement with stronger tools to prosecute individuals engaged in criminal activities who attempt to evade detection by deliberately circumventing checkpoints. The modifications will apply only to offenses committed on or after the bill's effective date, which is set for July 1, 2025, contingent upon receiving a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature.

Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB674