Bill > SB3041

This bill modifies Section 39.06 of the Texas Penal Code to establish graduated criminal penalties for misuse of official information based on the financial gain resulting from the offense. Specifically, the bill creates a tiered penalty structure where the severity of the felony charge depends on the amount of net pecuniary gain: if the gain is less than $150,000, it remains a third-degree felony; if the gain is between $150,000 and $300,000, it becomes a second-degree felony; and if the gain is $300,000 or more, it escalates to a first-degree felony. The bill repeals a previous subsection and includes a provision that these new penalties will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is September 1, 2025. By linking the criminal charge to the financial benefit obtained, the legislation aims to create a more proportional punishment system for instances of official information misuse, with more serious financial gains resulting in more serious criminal charges.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB3041