Bill > SB1637

This bill modifies the Texas Penal Code's provisions regarding the offense of deadly conduct, specifically addressing how recklessness is presumed when pointing a firearm at another person. The bill clarifies that recklessness and danger are presumed when someone knowingly points a firearm at or in the direction of another, regardless of whether they believe the firearm is loaded. Importantly, the bill adds an exception for peace officers, stating that this presumption does not apply when an officer is lawfully performing their official duties. Additionally, the bill creates a new provision that exempts peace officers from certain offense classifications if they were actively discharging their official duties and reasonably believed the use of their firearm was justified under Chapter 9 of the Penal Code (which typically covers legal justifications for the use of force). The changes will apply only to offenses committed on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, with previous offenses still governed by the law in effect at the time they were committed.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1637