Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB714

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the penalty for the offense of reckless driving.

Impact

The new penalties will impose a fine not to exceed $700 and potential confinement in county jail for up to 60 days for those convicted of reckless driving that leads to serious injuries or fatalities. Additionally, the bill allows for the suspension of the driver's license for a minimum of 30 days for offenders. These measures are intended to deter reckless behavior on the road and provide a stronger framework for dealing with serious incidents caused by reckless driving, thereby promoting overall traffic safety.

Summary

House Bill 714 aims to revise the penalties associated with the offense of reckless driving in Texas. The bill specifically amends Section 545.401 of the Transportation Code to introduce stricter consequences for individuals whose reckless driving results in serious bodily injury or death. Under the proposed changes, the penalties for such offenses would increase significantly compared to current misdemeanor penalties. This modification reflects an increasing legislative priority on improving road safety and holding reckless drivers accountable for their actions, particularly when they cause harm to others.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 714 may arise from concerns about the extent to which increased penalties could affect individuals who may already be struggling with driving-related issues. While proponents argue that these tougher penalties are necessary to address reckless driving effectively, opponents may express concern over the potential for overpunishment and the implications for individuals trying to rehabilitate their driving habits. Additionally, questions may be raised regarding the effectiveness of educational courses mandated by the court, as judges could require offenders to attend classes focused on the attitudinal dynamics of driving, which raises discussions about the best methods for prevention and education in road safety.

Companion Bills

TX SB1389

Identical Relating to the penalty for the offense of reckless driving.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1402

Relating to the criminal penalties for certain criminal offenses.

TX HB1442

Relating to the prosecution of certain criminal conduct involving a reckless driving exhibition or racing on a highway and to the forfeiture of contraband as a result of a reckless driving exhibition.

TX SB1970

Relating to the prosecution of certain criminal conduct involving a reckless driving exhibition or racing on a highway and to the forfeiture of contraband as a result of a reckless driving exhibition or racing on a highway.

TX HB1375

Relating to enhancing the criminal penalties for certain repeat and habitual offenders.

TX SB208

Relating to the criminal penalties for delivery and possession of marihuana and citations given for those offenses.

TX HB939

Relating to the penalty for certain offenders for possession of a small amount of certain controlled substances.

TX HB2330

Relating to the criminal penalties for certain controlled substance offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB208

Relating to the punishment for certain controlled substance offenses committed in a drug-free zone; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB520

Relating to criminal penalties for possession offenses under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.

TX SB1518

Relating to the establishment of a terrorist offender registry and to the supervision of those terrorist offenders; creating criminal offenses related to terrorism.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.