TX
Texas House Bill HB1458

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1458

Caption

Relating to the repeal of the driver responsibility program and the amount and allocation of state traffic fine funds; authorizing and increasing criminal fines.

Impact

This measure represents a substantial shift in how Texas manages traffic violations and fines. By abolishing the driver responsibility program, which was often criticized for its financial burden on drivers, especially those with limited means, the bill aims to simplify and clarify the state's approach to traffic enforcement. The transition to a more straightforward penalties structure could lead to a significant change in state revenue management, redistributing funds from specific traffic fines to the general revenue and designated accounts for trauma facilities and emergency services.

Summary

House Bill 1458 seeks to repeal the driver responsibility program in Texas and modify the handling of traffic fines and their allocation. The bill proposes changes to various statutes related to moving violations, with a significant focus on adjusting fines associated with infractions. Under this legislation, the financial penalties for certain traffic-related offenses, particularly those involving intoxication while operating a vehicle, will see substantial increases. For instance, fines for first-time DWI convictions could rise to as much as $3,000.

Contention

However, the bill has ignited discussion among lawmakers and stakeholders. Supporters argue that eliminating the driver responsibility program will alleviate financial strain from low-income individuals who might struggle with excessive fines or surcharges. Conversely, critics express concerns that increasing fines could disproportionately affect vulnerable communities without effectively addressing the underlying issues of repeat offenses. Furthermore, there are inquiries about whether the new funding allocations will adequately support essential services that could mitigate the traffic problems rather than simply penalizing offenders.

Companion Bills

TX HB1487

Same As Relating to the repeal of the driver responsibility program and the amount and allocation of state traffic fine funds; authorizing and increasing criminal fines.

Previously Filed As

TX SB478

Relating to the administration of the motorcycle operator training and safety program and requirements for the issuance of certain driver's licenses and commercial driver's licenses; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee.

TX SB1527

Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3451

Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3758

Relating to repealing civil asset forfeiture provisions and establishing criminal asset forfeiture in this state.

TX HB828

Relating to the age of criminal responsibility and to certain substantive and procedural matters related to that age.

TX HB501

Relating to the age of criminal responsibility and to certain substantive and procedural matters related to that age.

TX HB3186

Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.

TX SB1505

Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.

TX SB1427

Relating to certain criminal conduct and organizations that threaten the security of this state and its residents and borders; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB7

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.

Similar Bills

TX SB1383

Relating to the creation and administration of the Texas Local Participation Transportation Program.

MD HB1215

Transportation Financing - Retail Delivery Fee and Transportation Network Company Impact Fee (Transportation Funding Act of 2024)

TX SB2949

Relating to the regulation of certain facilities and operators engaged in the motor fuel transport or export business; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee; creating criminal offenses; authorizing a civil penalty.

TX HB2068

Relating to the repeal of the driver responsibility program and the amount and allocation of state traffic fine funds; authorizing and increasing criminal fines.

TX SB2185

Relating to the repeal of the driver responsibility program and the amount and allocation of state traffic fine funds; authorizing and increasing criminal fines.

TX HB3469

Relating to a study by the Texas Department of Transportation on the feasibility of charging a pavement consumption fee for the operation of certain motor vehicles on public highways.

TX HB2048

Relating to the repeal of the driver responsibility program and the amount and allocation of state traffic fine funds; eliminating program surcharges; authorizing and increasing criminal fines; increasing a fee.

TX SB918

Relating to the repeal of the driver responsibility program and the amount and allocation of state traffic fine funds; eliminating program surcharges; authorizing and increasing criminal fines; increasing a fee.