Bill > HB3565

This bill increases the criminal penalty for the offense of interference with public duties from a Class B misdemeanor to a state jail felony. Specifically, it amends Section 38.15(b) of the Texas Penal Code to elevate the criminal classification of this offense. A state jail felony is a more serious criminal charge that typically carries a higher potential punishment compared to a misdemeanor, potentially involving a longer jail sentence and more significant legal consequences. The bill includes a provision that clarifies the change in law will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is September 1, 2025. This means that for any offenses that occurred prior to this date, the previous legal classification (Class B misdemeanor) will still apply. By increasing the penalty, the legislation appears to be signaling a desire to more strongly deter interference with public duties and treat such offenses with greater legal severity.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3565