Texas House Bill HCR136

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Requesting the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the House of Representatives to provide for a joint interim study regarding driving while intoxicated and driving under the influence.

Impact

The resolution seeks to catalyze a joint interim study by the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the House, focusing on evidence-based methods to mitigate the risks posed by intoxicated drivers. By analyzing existing penalties for DWI/DUI offenses and evaluating their effectiveness, the resolution aims to inform legislative recommendations that could significantly enhance public safety. The intended outcomes of this resolution may inform future legislative actions aimed at reducing the frequency and severity of alcohol-related crashes, providing a data-driven approach to combating this ongoing public safety issue.

Summary

HCR136 is a concurrent resolution from the Texas Legislature that addresses the serious issue of driving while intoxicated (DWI) and driving under the influence (DUI) incidents within the state. Texas has consistently ranked poorly in terms of alcohol-related vehicular crashes, with over 1,300 deaths attributable to drunk driving in 2013 alone, accounting for nearly 40 percent of all traffic fatalities in the state. In light of these alarming statistics, HCR136 calls for a comprehensive study to evaluate the extent and consequences of DWI/DUI incidents, aiming to better understand mortality rates, accident occurrences, and levels of intoxication on the roads.

Contention

There may be varying viewpoints on HCR136, particularly regarding the implementation of stricter penalties or diverse preventive measures to address alcohol consumption and driving behaviors. Advocates for tougher regulations could argue that existing penalties are insufficient to deter impaired driving effectively. Conversely, there may be concern among some lawmakers and community advocates about possible overreach in penalizing individuals for intoxication, emphasizing the need for preventive educational campaigns alongside any punitive measures. The generated study and ensuing discussions could provide a platform for balancing enforcement with education in addressing DWI/DUI incidents.