CRIME/LAW ENFORCEMENT

HB 28 raises the criminal penalty for aggravated assaults from a second-degree felony to a first-degree felony if the assailant uses a deadly weapon during an assault that causes a traumatic brain or spinal injury that results in a vegetative state or paralysis. The change in law applies only to an offense committed on or after Sept. 1. The bill was signed by Abbott and takes effect on Sept. 1, 2023.