| Vote Recommendation | Economic Freedom | Property Rights | Personal Responsibility | Limited Government | Individual Liberty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Neutral | Positive | Positive | Neutral | Neutral |
Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offense of theft of service.
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
HB 2524 would add that intent to steal a service is presumed when a person fails to return property valued between $2,500 and $10,000 held under a rental agreement within three days after receiving notice demanding return of the property. Such intent would be presumed if the actor fails to return property within two days after receiving notice demanding return for property valued at $10,000 or more. Finally, such intent would be presumed if the actor failed to return the property held under certain agreements within five business days after receiving notice demanding return, and has made fewer than three complete payments under the agreement.
Texas Action supports HB 2524 as it advances the principles of personal responsibility and property rights. Once an individual has received noticed that they must return rental property which they have not kept up payment, they should promptly return it to it's owner. Updating and clarifying the process for serving notice is also beneficial.