SRC-TAG H.B. 831 78(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 831 78R4284 EMT-FBy: Reyna (Deuell) Criminal Justice 5/22/2003 Engrossed DIGEST AND PURPOSE Current law provides no penalty for the directing of light from a laser pointer at a uniformed safety officer. Laser pointers mimic sighting lasers on firearms, which may cause an officer to act as if his or her life is in danger. H.B. 831 provides that a person who knowingly directs light from a laser pointer at a uniformed safety officer commits a Class C misdemeanor. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 42, Penal Code, by adding Section 42.13, as follows: Sec. 42.13. USE OF LASER POINTERS. (a) Provides that a person commits an offense if the person knowingly directs a light from a laser pointer at a uniformed safety officer, including a peace officer, security guard, firefighter, emergency medical service worker, or other uniformed municipal, state, or federal officer. (b) Defines "laser pointer." (c) Provides that an offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor. SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2003.