Texas Senate Bill SB1133

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/6/25

Caption

Relating to increasing the minimum term of imprisonment and changing the eligibility for community supervision, mandatory supervision, and parole for certain persons convicted of intoxication manslaughter.

Impact

The legislation also revises eligibility for community supervision and parole concerning such offenders. Specifically, individuals convicted under the new stipulations would not be eligible for parole until they have served a full ten years, without regard for any good conduct time. This ensures that offenders face significant repercussions for their actions and are held accountable for the dangerous scenario they create while operating vehicles under the influence. By enforcing stricter guidelines for community supervision, the bill aims to deter future incidents effectively.

Summary

Senate Bill 1133, known as Grayson's Law, aims to strengthen the penalties for those convicted of intoxication manslaughter. The bill stipulates that if a person is found guilty of this offense and it is shown that they were in the country illegally at the time, the minimum term of imprisonment would be raised to ten years. This amendment seeks to address public safety concerns associated with repeat offenders and high-risk driving situations, making the punishments more severe and unequivocal for serious crimes involving intoxication and illegal presence.

Conclusion

The bill's provisions will apply only to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, meaning prior offenses will be governed by existing laws. This forward-looking approach aims to implement stricter regulations and promote a legal environment that prioritizes public safety on roadways and fosters lawful behaviors associated with driving.

Contention

While proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary step to enhance public safety and deter intoxication-related offenses, potential points of contention could arise from its implications for individuals who may already be facing formidable legal challenges. Critics may question the fairness of imposing such harsh penalties that do not allow for consideration of individual circumstances, as well as the broader implications for sentencing reform and the potential strain on the correctional system. Overall, this law could exacerbate issues surrounding the treatment of non-citizens in the criminal justice system.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

• Chapter 49. Intoxication And Alcoholic Beverage Offenses
  • Section: 08

Code Of Criminal Procedure

• Chapter 42. Judgment And Sentence
  • Section: New Section

Government Code

• Chapter 508. Parole And Mandatory Supervision
  • Section: 145
  • Section: 147