Texas HB3869 increases penalties for assault and harassment against utility employees in disaster or evacuation areas.

HB3869 amends the Texas Penal Code to increase criminal penalties for offenses of assault and harassment committed against utility employees or agents in disaster or evacuation areas. The bill specifies that such offenses are elevated to a Class A misdemeanor if committed against utility personnel performing duties in areas declared disaster zones or under evacuation orders. The changes apply to offenses committed after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

Texas HB3869 increases penalties for assault and harassment against utility employees in disaster or evacuation areas.

HB3869 amends the Texas Penal Code to increase criminal penalties for offenses of assault and harassment committed against utility employees or agents in disaster or evacuation areas. The bill specifies that such offenses are elevated to a Class A misdemeanor if committed against utility personnel performing duties in areas declared disaster zones or under evacuation orders. The changes apply to offenses committed after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.