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Bill

HB 316

Relating to creating a criminal offense for interfering with a motor fuel metering device or motor fuel unattended payment terminal and the prosecution of certain organized criminal activity.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Mary Ann Perez

HB 316 criminalizes tampering with fuel pumps and payment terminals in Texas, with enhanced penalties for organized criminal schemes involving multiple violations.

Placed on General State Calendar
#consumerprotection(i0080) #crimes--againstproperty(i0175) #criminalprocedure--general(i0208) #financial--general(i0365) #organizedcrime(s1233) #vehicles&traffic--equipment(i0855)
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Bill Summary · HB 316

Legislative bill overview

HB 316 creates new criminal offenses in Texas for tampering with fuel pumps or payment systems at gas stations, and enhances penalties when such interference is part of organized criminal activity. The bill aims to address theft and fraud schemes targeting both consumers and fuel retailers through manipulation of metering devices or payment terminals.

Why is this important

Fuel pump tampering and skimming devices at payment terminals represent a growing theft problem that affects consumer wallets and creates liability for business owners. By establishing specific criminal statutes with organized crime enhancements, the bill provides prosecutors clearer legal tools to pursue sophisticated schemes while deterring individual instances of fuel theft.

Potential points of contention

  • Vagueness concerns: The definition of "interfering with" a device could be interpreted broadly, potentially catching accidental damage or legitimate maintenance work alongside intentional criminal conduct
  • Penalty escalation: Enhanced penalties for "organized criminal activity" determinations may lack clear thresholds, giving prosecutors significant discretion in charging decisions
  • Compliance costs: Gas stations may face pressure to implement costly anti-tampering technology, potentially driving up fuel prices or creating compliance burdens for small operators

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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