Carter Takes Tough Stand on DWI Offenses

February 15, 2011

(AUSTIN, TX)  – Representative Stefani Carter (R-Dallas) is supporting legislation this session to address DWI offenders and hold them more accountable for their actions.

Carter has joint authored House Bill 506, which requires first-time DWI offenders to have an ignition interlock device, also known as a breathalyzer, installed on their vehicle as a condition of community supervision.  Ignition interlock devices require drivers to exhale into the device, and if the analyzed result is greater than the programmed blood alcohol concentration, the device prevents the engine from being started.

In addition to HB 506, Carter has filed legislation, House Bill 982, to ensure that ignition interlock devices are installed and maintained according to court order.

“Unfortunately, a judicial order to install an ignition interlock device does not guarantee that an offender will abide by the order,” said Carter.  ”It is my hope that a penalty for non-compliance will compel individuals to meet the terms of their punishment.”

House Bill 982 provides penalties for DWI offenders who fail to  install and maintain an ignition interlock device.  Currently, failure to comply with court order is punishable by contempt.  HB 982 would change the Penal Code to make non-compliance a Class A misdemeanor.  Class A misdemeanors are punishable by a fine not to exceed $4,000, confinement in jail for a term not to exceed one year, or both.

“HB 506 and HB 982 certainly reflect the seriousness of DWI offenses,” said Carter.  “As the daughter of someone who lost two siblings to DWI-related deaths, I believe toughening penalties on DWI offenders is a necessity.”

For more information, contact:
Taurie Randermann
Chief of Staff
Representative Stefani Carter
House District 102
Ph: 979.277.4853