Relating to the punishment for certain intoxication offenses.
Impact
By requiring judges to implement ignition interlock devices for those granted deferred adjudication for specific offenses, SB664 aims to create additional safeguards against repeat intoxication offenses. This provision is particularly relevant for offenders under Sections 49.04 or 49.06 of the Penal Code, which pertain to DWI. The introduction of mandatory ignition interlocks reflects a national trend towards utilizing technology as a preventive measure against drunk driving, thereby enhancing the enforcement of DUI laws.
Summary
Senate Bill 664 seeks to amend the punishment for certain intoxication offenses, specifically addressing how judges may exercise discretion in granting deferred adjudication community supervision for offenders. The bill stipulates that judges are restricted from granting this form of leniency for individuals charged with a range of intoxication offenses outlined under various sections of the Penal Code, particularly those involving operating a vehicle while intoxicated (DWI). This approach is part of a broader effort to reinforce the legal consequences for repeat offenders and to improve overall public safety on Texas roads.
Contention
The bill may face contention related to its implications for judicial discretion and the fairness of mandatory penalties. Advocates argue that stringent measures are necessary to address drunk driving effectively, while critics may raise concerns about the impact on individuals facing their first offenses or those struggling with alcohol dependence. The balance between public safety and fair judicial process remains a critical area of discussion as stakeholders evaluate the potential success and repercussions of the bill's implementation.
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 offenses involving the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances and the enforcement and prevention of those offenses; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a firearm by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in certain criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.
Relating to the release on bail of certain defendants accused of committing a felony offense and the criminal consequences of committing a felony while released on bail for a prior felony; creating a criminal offense; increasing the minimum term of imprisonment for certain felonies; changing eligibility for deferred adjudication community supervision, mandatory supervision, and parole.
Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a handgun by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.