By:  Reyna, et al. (Senate Sponsor - Deuell)                      H.B. No. 831
	(In the Senate - Received from the House April 2, 2003; 
April 7, 2003, read first time and referred to Committee on 
Criminal Justice; May 23, 2003, reported favorably by the 
following vote:  Yeas 4, Nays 0; May 23, 2003, sent to printer.)


A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT


relating to regulation of the use of laser pointers; providing a 
criminal penalty.
	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:                        
	SECTION 1.   Chapter 42, Penal Code, is amended by adding 
Section 42.13 to read as follows:
	Sec. 42.13.  USE OF LASER POINTERS.  (a)  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)  In this section, "laser pointer" means a device that 
emits a visible light amplified by the stimulated emission of 
radiation.
	(c)  An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.            
	SECTION 2.   This Act takes effect September 1, 2003.                          



* * * * *