Regular Session
Government Affairs & Regulatory Compliance Analysis
SB1281 creates severe felony liability for the unauthorized possession of mail keys and bulk mail containing negotiable instruments (checks). Property management firms, corporate mailrooms, and logistics providers must immediately tighten chain-of-custody protocols to avoid triggering the new "presumption of intent to steal" clauses applied to anyone holding mail for 5+ addressees.
Sen. Tan Parker·Senate Bill·Regular Session
County/District Attorneys • Local Law Enforcement (Police/Sheriff)
This legislation has regulatory implications for the following Texas businesses and organizations:
Notable regulatory updates (effective 2025-09-01). Consider how these changes may affect your operations.
Affected business types:
lowMinimal cost impact anticipated.
JD Key Consulting provides government affairs and regulatory strategy services. We help businesses navigate Texas agencies, understand legislative impacts, and advocate for their interests.
JD Key Consulting provides strategic guidance on Texas regulatory compliance and legislative impact for your business.
Key implementation requirements and action items for compliance with this legislation
JD Key Consulting specializes in Texas regulatory compliance strategy. Work directly with James Dickey—former Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas—to understand this bill's impact on your operations and develop an actionable compliance plan.
Schedule a ConsultationInformation presented is for general knowledge only and is provided without warranty, express or implied. Consult qualified government affairs professionals and legal counsel before making compliance decisions.
This bill's path through the Texas Legislature
Explore more bills from this author and on related topics
Common questions about SB1281
SB1281 creates severe felony liability for the unauthorized possession of mail keys and bulk mail containing negotiable instruments (checks). Property management firms, corporate mailrooms, and logistics providers must immediately tighten chain-of-custody protocols to avoid triggering the new "presumption of intent to steal" clauses applied to anyone holding mail for 5+ addressees.
SB1281 was authored by Texas Senator Tan Parker during the Regular Session.
SB1281 was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 20, 2025.
SB1281 is enforced by County/District Attorneys and Local Law Enforcement (Police/Sheriff).
The regulatory priority for SB1281 is rated as "moderate". Businesses and organizations should review the legislation to understand potential impacts.
The cost impact of SB1281 is estimated as "low". This may vary based on industry and implementation requirements.
SB1281 addresses topics including aging, crimes, crimes--against property, disabilities, persons with and postal service.
Key dates for SB1281: Effective date is 2025-09-01. Consult with legal counsel regarding applicability.
SB1281 establishes the following penalties: criminal penalty of State Jail Felony to 1st Degree Felony (based on quantity) for Theft of mail containing negotiable instruments (checks). Possession of mail for 5+ addressees or 5+ instruments creates a rebuttable presumption of intent to steal (exemptions apply for lawful businesses).; criminal penalty of 3rd Degree Felony (2nd Degree if prior conviction) for Unlawful possession, duplication, transfer, or use of a postal service key or lock with intent to harm, defraud, or deprive.; criminal penalty of Penalty Enhancement (One Category Higher) for Theft of negotiable instruments where the actor knew the victim was elderly or disabled.. Consult with legal counsel for specific applicability to your situation.
SB1281 primarily affects property owners and real estate professionals. These businesses should review the legislation with their legal and compliance teams to understand potential impacts.
JD Key Consulting is an Austin, Texas-based government affairs firm led by James Dickey, former Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas. We specialize in Texas regulatory compliance and legislative strategy for data centers, energy, banking, and manufacturing.
