Honorable Joseph Pickett, Chair, House Committee On Homeland Security & Public Safety
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB1216 by Craddick (Relating to the penalty for the offense of reckless driving.), As Introduced
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Transportation Code to increase the fine for reckless driving from a maximum of $200 to $1,000; and would increase confinement in a county jail from a maximum of 30 days to 90 days. A person commits an offense if the person drives a vehicle in wilful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.
Local Government Impact
The increase in revenue generated from higher fines would vary depending on the number of offenses committed, but that amount may be offset by costs associated with increased jail time per offender.
According to the Texas Commission on Jail Standards (TCJS), the average cost for an inmate in a county jail is $59.33 per day.