Bill > HB2895

This bill expands the legal justification for using force and deadly force in Texas by introducing a new definition of "violent felony" and modifying existing self-defense laws. Specifically, the bill defines a violent felony as any felony that involves the intentional, knowing, or threatened use of force or deadly force against another person. The bill amends two sections of the Texas Penal Code to broaden the circumstances under which a person can use force or deadly force in self-defense. Under the new provisions, individuals can use force or deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves against someone committing or attempting to commit a violent felony, in addition to the previously listed serious crimes like murder, sexual assault, and robbery. The bill maintains existing conditions that the person using force must not have provoked the aggressor and must not be engaged in criminal activity (other than minor traffic violations). The changes will apply only to offenses committed on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that existing legal standards continue to apply to prior offenses.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2895