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SB 15

Relating to recording requirements for certain documents concerning real property; creating the criminal offenses of real property theft and real property fraud and establishing a statute of limitations for those offenses.

89th Legislature, 1st Called Session (2025) Introduced by Borris Miles and 3 co-sponsors

Texas bill criminalizes real property theft and fraud with specific recording requirements and establishes prosecution timeframes to combat document-based property crimes.

Reported engrossed
#countygovernment--general(i0096) #courts--general(i0160) #crimes--againstproperty(i0175) #criminalprocedure--sentencing&punishment(i0205) #propertyinterests--realproperty(i0595) #statutesoflimitations(s0065)
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Bill Summary · SB 15

Legislative bill overview

SB 15 creates two new criminal offenses in Texas—real property theft and real property fraud—with specific recording requirements for documents affecting real property titles. The bill establishes statutory limitations periods for prosecuting these offenses, addressing gaps in existing law where property crimes involving real estate documentation fell outside traditional theft or fraud statutes.

Why is this important

Real property crimes, particularly those involving forged or fraudulent documents that affect home titles, have grown significantly in Texas and nationwide. Without specific criminal statutes, prosecutors have struggled to charge perpetrators adequately, leaving homeowners vulnerable to having their property stolen through document manipulation. This bill directly addresses that enforcement gap and clarifies what constitutes criminal conduct in real estate transactions.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional scope: The precise definitions of "real property theft" and "real property fraud" are critical—overly broad language could criminalize legitimate title disputes or business transactions, while narrow definitions might leave loopholes for sophisticated schemes.
  • Recording requirement enforcement: Mandating specific recording procedures could create compliance burdens on legitimate parties and raise questions about whether failure to record triggers automatic criminal liability or requires intent.
  • Statute of limitations length: The bill's specified timeframes for prosecution may be contentious—shorter periods could favor defendants accused years later, while longer periods could extend vulnerability for property owners challenging old fraudulent documents.

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

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