Bill > HB3552

This bill addresses criminal conduct involving copper and brass theft, damage to critical infrastructure facilities, and regulations for metal recycling entities. It expands the definition of "critical infrastructure facility" to include additional types of facilities and communications systems, and creates new criminal offenses related to stealing or damaging copper or brass materials from these facilities. The bill increases criminal penalties for theft and damage of copper or brass components from critical infrastructure, making such offenses a third-degree felony under certain circumstances. It also establishes a new offense of unauthorized possession of copper or brass material, with penalties ranging from a state jail felony to a third-degree felony depending on the specific circumstances. Additionally, the bill requires metal recycling entities to maintain detailed records of copper and brass material transactions, with specific documentation requirements and potential administrative penalties for non-compliance. The legislation aims to reduce theft of critical infrastructure materials by creating more stringent legal consequences and tracking mechanisms, with implementation dates set between 2025 and 2028. The bill applies to a wide range of facilities, including utility, telecommunications, and energy infrastructure, and provides clear guidelines for businesses and law enforcement on handling copper and brass materials.

Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3552