Relating to requiring the use of an ignition interlock device on conviction of certain intoxication offenses.
Impact
The implementation of HB 928 is expected to impact state laws related to community supervision and the conditions set forth by the court for intoxication offenders. It amends existing legislation to ensure that individuals with convictions for intoxication-related offenses are held to stricter standards, compelling them to adhere to the use of ignition interlock devices. This change is positioned to reduce the likelihood of recidivism among intoxicated drivers, thus potentially decreasing the number of alcohol-related accidents on the roads.
Summary
House Bill 928 aims to strengthen laws concerning driving under the influence (DUI) by mandating the installation of ignition interlock devices for individuals convicted of certain intoxication offenses. The bill specifies that courts must require these devices as a condition of community supervision for individuals convicted under specific sections of the Penal Code related to intoxication, making it harder for offenders to drive while intoxicated. This legislation seeks to enhance public safety by preventing repeat offenses and promoting responsible driving behavior among those convicted of DUI.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 928 appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers and public safety advocates who see the bill as a necessary step toward enhancing road safety. Proponents argue that the use of ignition interlock devices is an effective tool in deterring individuals from driving under the influence. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial burden on offenders related to the cost of installation and maintenance of these devices, which critics argue could disproportionately affect lower-income individuals.
Contention
Notable points of contention associated with HB 928 could arise around the balance between public safety and the rights of offenders. Some opponents may voice concerns about the mandatory nature of the ignition interlock requirement and whether it adequately considers individual circumstances, particularly regarding financial implications. Additionally, discussions may emerge about the effectiveness of ignition interlocks across different demographics, questioning whether this measure will have the intended impact on recidivism rates.
Relating to the offense of providing or requesting or allowing another to provide a breath specimen for an ignition interlock device; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to creating the criminal offense of boating while intoxicated with a child passenger; changing the eligibility for deferred adjudication community supervision.
Relating to increasing the minimum term of imprisonment and changing the eligibility for community supervision and parole for certain felony offenses in which a firearm is used or exhibited and to certain consequences on conviction of certain offenses.
Relating to increasing the minimum term of imprisonment and changing the eligibility for community supervision and parole for certain felony offenses in which a firearm is used or exhibited, to certain consequences on conviction of certain of those offenses, and to increasing the criminal penalty for the offense of unlawful possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a felony.
Relating to the authority of a magistrate to issue a search warrant to collect a blood specimen from a person arrested for certain intoxication offenses.
Relating to the suspension of the driver's license of a person arrested for an offense involving the operation of a motor vehicle while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol.
Relating to defendants restricted to the operation of a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device or required to submit to alcohol monitoring and establishing a central database of those defendants.
Relating to the restriction of certain intoxication offenders to the operation of a motor vehicle with an ignition interlock device in lieu of a license suspension.
Relating to required alcohol monitoring and ignition interlock devices ordered by a court and a central database of those orders; creating a criminal offense.