Bill > SB2601

This bill amends the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure to expand and clarify the landowner compensation program, which provides financial relief to landowners and lessees who suffer property damage due to border-related criminal activities. The bill broadens the definition of "border crime" and allows compensation for damage to agricultural land, livestock, timber, and crops caused by trespassers involved in specific criminal offenses. The attorney general is authorized to establish the program using appropriated funds, federal grants, and reimbursements, with a maximum compensation limit of $75,000 per incident, including a $10,000 cap for livestock, timber, or crop damages. The bill also introduces provisions for cleaning up debris or contaminants left on agricultural land and requires law enforcement agencies to provide relevant reports to the attorney general. Additionally, the bill includes confidentiality protections for compensation applicants and prohibits insurance companies from considering claims related to border crime incidents when setting insurance rates. The changes will apply to damages incurred on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, and insurance policy provisions will take effect from January 1, 2026.

Government Affairs, Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2601