Legislative Blog
J.B. Williams, J.D.
6 bills that modify the Penal Code
A Blog about 88th Legislature Laws
A Bit of Background
The following backgrounds help summarize the author's views on both the general topic: Texas and more specifically 88th Legislature Laws as it relates to that topic.
Brief Summary of Texas
Texas is truly a Republic. There are a multitude of items that to modify the state constitution must be modified. So there are times when Constitutional amendments are on the voting ballots. While I sometimes abhor the wording, the concept that all of those legally able to vote in Texas must vote on the change is a good one. And bills in Texas are generally short, making it easier for everyone to understand.
Summary of 88th Legislature Laws
The blogs here will discuss the laws passed by Congress and signed into law, as well as those, passed by Congress and approved by the voters to become law. There are a multitude of laws and each time I post blogs I will notate here the current effective date if it is different from prior blogs. I am currently posting bills that took effect immediately - those bills total 336. I am currently posting regarding larger bills, so each blog covers a single bill.
Blog Summary
HB 2187
HB 2291 - Putting retired judges in the same position as active judges for carrying
HB 2306 - Remote viewing of images for sexual pleasure is included as violation
HB 2700
HB 2897
HB 2961
6 bills that modify the Penal Code
Published: 2026-04-08
HB 2187 - 23 pages
This modifies a section that previously applied to endangering a child, and now includes endangering an elderly or disabled individual. That truly is the only modification - just remember that were the endangering of a child was, there are the same issues/penalties for endangering an elderly or disabled individual.
HB - 4 pages
A retired judge or justice, if licensed to carry, is now permitted to carry just as an active judge or peace officer. I know of some now retired judges that are, I'm sure, pretty happy about this.
HB 2306 - 2 pages
Remote viewing by electronic means is now covered as an offense when it is done to arouse or gratify the sexual desire and the person being viewed is in a structure where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
HB 2700 - 4 pages
Visual materials of an actual recognizable person due to the likeness, face, or other distinguishing characteristics; and the person is younger than 18. This includes if the image was created, adapted or modified using computer-generated visual materials.
HB 2897 - 3 pages
Theft of service includes sending a rental agreement; using the records of the person whose service was acquired; securing the performance by passing a check or similar sight order payment.
HB 2961 - 2 pages
Conspiracy means an agreement between 2 or more persons to commit a felony.
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