2022 Texas Statutes
Penal Code
Title 9 - Offenses Against Public Order and Decency
Chapter 42 - Disorderly Conduct and Related Offenses
Section 42.13. Use of Laser Pointers
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, except that the offense is:
(1) a felony of the third degree if the conduct causes bodily injury to the officer; or
(2) a felony of the first degree if the conduct causes serious bodily injury to the officer.
(d) If conduct that constitutes an offense under this section also constitutes an offense under any other law, the actor may be prosecuted under this section or the other law, but not both.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 467, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 200 (H.B. 2366), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2021.
