Bill > SB476

This bill enhances criminal penalties for intoxication manslaughter, specifically targeting individuals who violate ignition interlock device (IID) restrictions. The bill modifies existing Texas law to create three distinct scenarios for first-degree felony charges: first, the standard intoxication manslaughter charge; second, a first-degree felony with potential life imprisonment for offenders under 18 who violate IID restrictions by operating a vehicle without the required device or with a knowingly non-functioning device; and third, a first-degree felony with life imprisonment without parole for offenders 18 and older who similarly violate IID restrictions. An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer-like mechanism installed in a vehicle that prevents it from starting if the driver's blood alcohol content is above a certain level, typically used for individuals with prior drunk driving offenses. The bill also adds a definition for "ignition interlock device" to the existing legal code. These changes will apply only to offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025, and are designed to impose stricter consequences on repeat drunk driving offenders who circumvent court-ordered safety measures.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB476