Bill > SB2771

This bill modifies the Texas Penal Code's definition and prosecution of aggravated assault by introducing a new category of "substantial bodily injury" as a distinct type of assault, defined as bodily injury causing protracted physical pain, temporary disfigurement, or temporary loss or impairment of bodily function. The bill expands the aggravated assault statute to include causing substantial bodily injury as a separate offense, which would be classified as a third-degree felony, in addition to the existing provisions for serious bodily injury and assault with a deadly weapon. The bill maintains the second-degree felony classification for serious bodily injury or deadly weapon use, and keeps the first-degree felony provisions for specific circumstances such as assaults against public servants, certain protected individuals, mass shootings, or incidents involving firearm discharge in occupied spaces. The changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025, with previous offenses continuing to be governed by the law in effect at the time of the offense. This modification provides more nuanced legal categorization of assault-related injuries and potential prosecution strategies.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2771