Sec. 475.0201. OFFENSE OF BRIBERY. (a) In this section, "benefit" has the meaning assigned by Section 36.01, Penal Code.

(b) A person commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly offers, confers, or agrees to confer on another person, or solicits, accepts, or agrees to accept from another person, any benefit as consideration for the recipient's decision, opinion, recommendation, vote, or other exercise of discretion as a member or employee of a local organizing committee or site selection organization.

(c) It is a defense to prosecution under Subsection (b) that the benefit conferred is a meal or entertainment reported under Section 475.0103(a)(2)(B).

(d) It is not a defense to prosecution under Subsection (b) that a person whom the actor sought to influence was not qualified to act as the actor intended the person to act.

(e) It is not a defense to prosecution under Subsection (b) that the benefit is not offered or conferred or that the benefit is not solicited or accepted until after:

(1) the decision, opinion, recommendation, vote, or other exercise of discretion has occurred; or

(2) the person whom the actor sought to influence is no longer a member of the local organizing committee or a site selection organization.

(f) An offense under this section is a felony of the second degree.

Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 301 (H.B. 4174), Sec. 1.01, eff. April 1, 2021.