Texas HB689 increases criminal penalties for certain offenses committed in public transportation vehicles.

HB689 amends the Texas Penal Code to increase the criminal penalty for offenses committed in public transportation vehicles, including buses and railcars. The bill raises the punishment to the next higher category for offenses under Chapters 21, 22, or 29, except for those punishable as a first-degree felony. For Class A misdemeanors, the minimum confinement term increases to 180 days. The changes apply only to offenses committed after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

Texas HB689 increases criminal penalties for certain offenses committed in public transportation vehicles.

HB689 amends the Texas Penal Code to increase the criminal penalty for offenses committed in public transportation vehicles, including buses and railcars. The bill raises the punishment to the next higher category for offenses under Chapters 21, 22, or 29, except for those punishable as a first-degree felony. For Class A misdemeanors, the minimum confinement term increases to 180 days. The changes apply only to offenses committed after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.