What this is
Texas is making punishments stronger for officials who abuse their power and harm people.
Senate Bill 57 is a Texas law that increases punishments for official oppression. Official oppression happens when a public servant abuses their power. This new bill makes the consequences stronger for certain types of abuse.
The bill creates different penalty levels depending on what the official did. If a public servant is convicted of official oppression, the basic penalty is a Class A misdemeanor. However, if the official is a peace officer and causes bodily injury or threatens someone with injury, the charge becomes a felony of the second degree. If the officer caused serious bodily injury or used a deadly weapon, the penalties are even more severe.
The bill also protects schools and students. If a public official tries to change or hide data reported to the Texas Education Agency, they face felony charges of the third degree. This protects the accuracy of education information that affects students and schools.
Read full text
Senate Bill 57 takes effect on January 1, 2026. The law applies only to offenses committed after that date. Officials and peace officers should understand that abusing their power will carry serious legal consequences. Our communities benefit when officials are held accountable for misconduct.
Key details
- Basic charge: Class A misdemeanor
- Peace officer with injury charge: Felony of the second degree
- School data manipulation charge: Felony of the third degree
- Effective date: January 1, 2026
- Sponsor: Borris Miles
About Texas Legislature
The Texas Legislature is the state legislature of Texas, consisting of the House of Representatives with 150 members and the Senate with 31 members. Meeting in regular session every two years, the legislature passes stat…
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Why it matters
This is part of Our Voice — civic life, elections, and accountability.
How this affects households
Under $30,000
Stronger penalties for police and official misconduct could reduce unfair treatment that lower-income families face more often. Better protection if you can't afford lawyers to fight abuse.
$30,000-$60,000
Increased accountability for officials may help protect your family from abuse of power. This law doesn't change your taxes or direct costs.
$60,000-$100,000
Better protection from official misconduct, though middle-income families typically have more resources to address abuse when it happens. No direct financial impact.
Over $100,000
This law doesn't directly affect your household finances. Higher-income families already have better access to legal help when dealing with official misconduct.
How to get involved
- 1Start with the snapshot above to know what this is in a glance.
- 2Read why it matters so you can speak to it in your own words.
- 3Weigh in using the button above.
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