Bill > HB170

This bill modifies Texas law regarding civil liability for individuals who use or threaten to use force or deadly force. The bill expands existing legal protections by creating a presumption of justification and immunity from civil liability in certain circumstances. Specifically, if a grand jury declines to indict a defendant or a criminal charge involving the use of force is either dismissed or results in an acquittal, the defendant is presumed to be justified under Chapter 9 of the Penal Code and immune from civil lawsuit. Additionally, defendants who are found to be immune from liability can now recover reasonable attorney's fees, court costs, lost income, and other expenses related to defending themselves in such actions. The bill clarifies and strengthens legal protections for individuals who use force in situations that may be deemed justified under self-defense or other legal standards. These changes will apply only to causes of action that accrue on or after September 1, 2025, ensuring that existing legal proceedings are not retroactively affected by the new law.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB170