HB 5274 Summary

• Establishes a DWI/sobriety court interlock pilot program allowing individuals convicted of drunk driving to obtain restricted licenses after 45 days if admitted to the program and equip their vehicle with an ignition interlock device.

• Modifies reckless driving penalties (Section 626) effective October 31, 2010, creating enhanced felony charges when reckless driving causes serious bodily injury (up to 5 years imprisonment) or death (up to 15 years imprisonment).

• Exempts DWI/sobriety court participants in good standing from vehicle immobilization and forfeiture under sections 625n and 904d, provided they do not subsequently violate drunk driving laws.

• Allows driver responsibility fees assessed under Section 732a to be held in abeyance during DWI/sobriety court participation, with fees assessed and paid under regular schedule upon program completion.

• Takes effect January 1, 2011, contingent upon enactment of Senate Bill 794 of the 95th Legislature.