Texas House Bill HB3207

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/21/25

Caption

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of the offense of intoxication assault; increasing a criminal penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB3207 would raise the stakes for individuals charged with intoxication assault, especially when injuries are inflicted on emergency services personnel or law enforcement officers in the line of duty. The proposed changes reclassify certain offenses, meaning that a person causing serious bodily injury to emergency medical services personnel or peace officers may face stricter classifications of felonies. This shift highlights a growing recognition of the importance of protecting those who serve in public safety roles.

Summary

House Bill 3207 pertains to the prosecution and punishment of the offense of intoxication assault by increasing the associated criminal penalties. The bill proposes amendments to Section 49.07 and Section 49.09 of the Texas Penal Code, which define the offenses of intoxication assault and the corresponding consequences based on the severity of the injury caused to another individual. The main focus of HB3207 is to enhance the penalties applied when intoxication assault results in serious bodily injury, particularly if the injury is inflicted upon emergency responders or law enforcement personnel while they are performing their official duties.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB3207 is the balance between increasing penalties and ensuring fair justice for offenders. Critics may argue that heightened penalties can result in disproportionate consequences for offenders, particularly in cases where the intoxication was unintentional or a result of extenuating circumstances. Supporters of the bill, however, contend that the increased penalties serve as a necessary deterrent against reckless behavior, particularly on the roads, emphasizing the need to protect those who are in danger from intoxicated individuals, especially law enforcement and emergency personnel.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

• Chapter 49. Intoxication And Alcoholic Beverage Offenses
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 07
  • Section: 09