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Relating to increasing the criminal penalty for certain conduct engaged in while participating in a riot and to restitution for property damage resulting from participating in a riot.
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
SB 912 would increase the penalty for knowingly participating in a riot from a Class B misdemeanor to a state jail felony if the offender knowingly assaults or attempts to assault someone they know to be a first responder in the performance of their duties. A first responder wearing their distinctive uniform or badge would create a rebuttable presumption that the offender knew of their status. SB 912 would also require a court to order a defendant convicted of participation in a riot to pay restitution for any damage to property proportional to the cost of restoring or replacing the property.
Texas Action supports SB 912 because it would advance property rights, individual liberty, and personal responsibility. Individuals who intentionally damage or destroy property in a riot or knowingly assault a first responder ought to be held accountable for that decision. SB 912 would create automatic restitution for property damage following riot convictions, providing justice to innocent property owners.
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