Bill > HB3816

This bill modifies the legal definition of "torture" in the Texas Penal Code specifically related to cruelty to livestock animals by expanding the definition to include two key elements: (1) any act that causes unjustifiable pain or suffering, and (2) the act of administering a controlled substance from Penalty Group 1 (which typically includes highly addictive drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine) without a valid prescription or healthcare practitioner's order. The bill clarifies that administering such controlled substances would be considered torture unless done under proper medical supervision. Additionally, the bill includes standard legal provisions specifying that the new law will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date (September 1, 2025), meaning that prior offenses will be governed by the law in effect at the time they were committed. This modification aims to provide a more comprehensive and precise definition of animal torture in the context of livestock protection.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3816