Texas House Bill HB759

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/7/09

Caption

Relating to the creation of a hotline to report suspected incidents of impaired driving or dangerous driving.

Impact

This legislation aims to enhance public safety and improve law enforcement's response to impaired and dangerous driving on Texas roads. By providing a direct line of communication for citizens to report these incidents, the bill could potentially lead to quicker intervention from law enforcement agencies. This mechanism is designed to empower citizens and engage them actively in the monitoring of driving behaviors that pose a threat to public safety, which could result in a reduction of alcohol-related and reckless driving accidents.

Summary

House Bill 759 proposes the establishment of a dedicated hotline for reporting incidents of impaired or dangerous driving in Texas. The bill mandates that the department create and operate a 24-hour hotline that would facilitate the communication of suspected incidents of driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs, as well as dangerous driving behaviors. Individuals would be able to report these incidents through various means, including a toll-free number, an internet website, and other electronic communications such as email or text messaging.

Contention

While the bill presents a proactive approach to tackling impaired and dangerous driving, it may also raise concerns regarding its implementation and the adequacy of resources allocated to manage the hotline effectively. Some may argue about the potential misuse of the hotline for false reporting or the burden it could place on already strained law enforcement resources. Additionally, clarifying how reports will be handled and the measures that will be taken once an incident is reported will be crucial in determining the overall effectiveness of this initiative.