Texas House Bill HCR33

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Expressing opposition to the enactment or enforcement in Texas of a law that automatically suspends the driver's license of an individual who is convicted of any drug-related offense.

Impact

The resolution underscores the challenge faced by individuals with drug convictions who lose their driving privileges, complicating their ability to maintain employment and support their families. The suspension impacts misdemeanants and felons alike, exacerbating the difficulties in their reintegration into society. By opposing the enforcement of mandatory license suspensions, Texas aims to advocate for a more rehabilitative approach rather than punitive measures that limit opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration.

Summary

HCR33 is a concurrent resolution that articulates Texas' opposition to a federal law requiring the automatic suspension of a driver's license for individuals convicted of drug-related offenses. While federal law mandates such a suspension, this resolution seeks to empower the state's judicial discretion in determining appropriate punishments. It argues that the blanket punishment of a license suspension not only infringes upon the judiciary's ability to tailor consequences based on individual cases, but also creates barriers for offenders trying to reintegrate into society after serving their sentences.

Contention

One of the key points of contention discussed in the resolution is the potential negative implications of maintaining the automatic suspension law. Supporters of the resolution may argue that removing such mandates allows for a more human-centered judicial approach, while opponents could assert that such a law is necessary to deter drug-related offenses and ensure accountability. This resolution presents an opportunity for Texas to join other states that have opted out of this federal requirement by expressing formal opposition and certifying that stance to the U.S. Secretary of Transportation.

Notable_points

HCR33 calls for a formal submission to the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, accompanied by a written certification from the governor that endorses Texas' position against the automatic license suspension for drug-related offenses. The resolution seeks to align Texas with a growing number of states advocating for legislative reform and a reconsideration of how drug-related offenses are penalized at both state and federal levels.