Bill > HB258

This bill creates two new criminal offenses related to real property theft and fraud, establishes recording requirements for property documents, and introduces new legal procedures for handling such cases. Specifically, the bill defines "real property theft" as intentionally transferring or attempting to transfer real property without the owner's consent, with the intent to deprive the owner of their property, and "real property fraud" as making false statements or causing unauthorized document execution related to real property. The offenses are classified as felonies with varying degrees of severity based on the value of the property or benefit involved, with enhanced penalties if the victim is elderly, disabled, or a nonprofit organization. The bill also requires county clerks to collect photo identification when filing property documents and mandates that court judgments in these cases include specific property information. Additionally, the legislation establishes restitution requirements for convicted defendants, allowing them to pay compensation to property owners, title companies, or insurers for losses incurred. The new laws will apply only to offenses committed on or after the bill's effective date, which is generally the 91st day after the legislative session ends, with some provisions taking effect on January 1, 2026.

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=892&Bill=HB258