Bill > HB1947

This bill expands the legal definition of critical infrastructure facilities to include semiconductor wafer manufacturing facilities and broadens the scope of criminal offenses related to these facilities. The bill creates new criminal offenses that not only cover physically entering and damaging critical infrastructure facilities, but also extend to activities that disturb the physical environment within 15 miles of such facilities, such as increasing ground or subterranean vibration levels. The offenses include intentionally damaging, destroying, impairing, or interrupting the operation of these facilities, with potential criminal penalties for both physical entry and remote disturbances. The bill significantly increases potential corporate penalties, raising the maximum fine for corporations from $500,000 to $1 billion. Additionally, the legislation allows for additional liability if an organization knowingly compensates someone for engaging in prohibited conduct at or near critical infrastructure facilities. The changes will only apply to offenses and causes of action occurring on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that prior conduct remains governed by existing law.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1947