Texas SB476 enhances penalties for intoxication manslaughter if the offender was restricted to using a vehicle with an ignition interlock device.

Texas SB476 amends the state's Penal Code to increase the severity of penalties for intoxication manslaughter. Specifically, it classifies the offense as a first-degree felony, punishable by life imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, if the offender was under 18 and violated a court order to use a vehicle with an ignition interlock device. For offenders 18 and older under the same conditions, the penalty is life imprisonment without parole. The changes apply only to offenses committed after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

Texas SB476 enhances penalties for intoxication manslaughter if the offender was restricted to using a vehicle with an ignition interlock device.

Texas SB476 amends the state's Penal Code to increase the severity of penalties for intoxication manslaughter. Specifically, it classifies the offense as a first-degree felony, punishable by life imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, if the offender was under 18 and violated a court order to use a vehicle with an ignition interlock device. For offenders 18 and older under the same conditions, the penalty is life imprisonment without parole. The changes apply only to offenses committed after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.