Backing the Badge With Stronger Penalties

Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day. They deserve laws that take threats against their lives seriously.

That is why Paul Dyson authored House Bill 1871, working with Brazos County District Attorney Jarvis Parsons to write and pass stronger penalties for attempted capital murder of a peace officer. Parsons brought firsthand prosecutorial experience to the effort, helping ensure the punishment reflects the seriousness of the crime.

Representative Dyson carried the legislation in the Texas House, and Senator Charles Schwertner carried it in the Senate. Governor Greg Abbott signed it into law today, with an effective date of September 1, 2025.

HB 1871 establishes a sentence of 25 to 99 years or life in prison for that offense. Those sentenced under this provision are not eligible for parole or release through mandatory supervision.

Supporting law enforcement means more than saying the right things. It means doing the work and passing laws that hold violent criminals accountable. Rep. Dyson is grateful for DA Parsons’ partnership and proud to stand with the officers who protect our families and communities.