Bill > SB1575

This bill enhances court security provisions in Texas by establishing several key changes. It requires municipal and county court security committees to create comprehensive court emergency management plans, shifting from optional to mandatory recommendations about security resource allocation. The bill mandates that municipalities and county commissioners courts give preference to court security committee recommendations when using certain funds. It expands court security committee membership to include additional representatives like constables, and clarifies that these committees are not considered governmental bodies. The bill also introduces a new definition of "court personnel" in the Penal Code, which includes employees like court clerks and administrators. Furthermore, the bill increases criminal penalties for harassment and threatening offenses committed against court personnel and judges, escalating charges from a standard misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor, state jail felony, or third-degree felony depending on the specific circumstances and prior convictions. Additionally, the judicial security division is tasked with developing a model court emergency management plan as a resource for these committees. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply only to offenses committed on or after that date.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1575