Relating to the use of metal or body armor while committing certain offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.

HB 108 increases penalties for certain felony offenses when defendants use metal or body armor during the crime. It requires judges to make an affirmative finding if a defendant used such armor (as defined in Texas law) during the commission of a third-degree felony or lower under Title 5 of the Penal Code (excluding first-degree felonies). If this finding is made, the punishment is raised to the next higher category of offense (e.g., a third-degree felony becomes a second-degree felony). The law exempts peace officers, military personnel, and licensed security officers from these penalties. This bill takes effect September 1, 2025.