Bill > SB2320

This bill increases criminal penalties for driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenses in Texas by modifying the Penal Code. Specifically, the bill upgrades the classification of certain DWI offenses: a standard DWI will now be a Class A misdemeanor (instead of a Class B misdemeanor) with a minimum 72-hour jail sentence; a DWI with an open container of alcohol will be a Class A misdemeanor with a minimum six-day jail sentence; and a DWI with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher will now be a state jail felony (instead of a Class A misdemeanor). Additionally, for individuals with a prior DWI conviction, the bill changes the penalty structure so that a subsequent DWI offense under Section 49.04 becomes a state jail felony. These changes apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025, meaning prior offenses will be governed by the law in effect at the time they were committed. The bill aims to increase penalties for repeat and more severe DWI offenses, potentially serving as a stronger deterrent to drunk driving.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2320