Bill > SB745

This bill enhances the criminal penalty for intoxication manslaughter by modifying Section 49.09(b-2) of the Texas Penal Code. Specifically, the bill expands the circumstances under which an intoxication manslaughter offense can be charged as a first-degree felony. Previously, the law allowed a first-degree felony charge if the person caused the death of an individual described in a specific subsection. The bill now adds a second provision: if a person causes the death of more than one person during the same criminal transaction, the offense becomes a first-degree felony. The changes will apply only to offenses committed on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, meaning that for any offenses with elements occurring before this date, the previous law will still govern. This modification aims to increase penalties for individuals who cause multiple fatalities while committing intoxication manslaughter, potentially serving as a stronger deterrent and reflecting the severity of causing multiple deaths in a single incident.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB745