Texas HB654 allows dismissal of illegal hunting charges if the defendant completes a hunter education course.

Texas HB654 amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to allow dismissal of charges related to illegal hunting of certain deer if the defendant completes a hunter education course. The court may defer proceedings for up to 180 days if specific conditions are met. A $10 reimbursement fee may be charged to cover administrative costs, but indigent defendants are exempt. If the defendant completes the course and adheres to the law during the deferral period, the charge is dismissed and does not count as a conviction. The law applies to offenses committed after its effective date of September 1, 2025.

Texas HB654 allows dismissal of illegal hunting charges if the defendant completes a hunter education course.

Texas HB654 amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to allow dismissal of charges related to illegal hunting of certain deer if the defendant completes a hunter education course. The court may defer proceedings for up to 180 days if specific conditions are met. A $10 reimbursement fee may be charged to cover administrative costs, but indigent defendants are exempt. If the defendant completes the course and adheres to the law during the deferral period, the charge is dismissed and does not count as a conviction. The law applies to offenses committed after its effective date of September 1, 2025.