H.B. No. 1625, known as the Kevin Alexis Ramirez Vasquez Act, aims to enhance penalties for offenses related to passing certain vehicles and introduces new criminal offenses. The bill amends Section 521.292(a) of the Transportation Code to include additional grounds for license suspension, specifically for individuals who commit offenses under Sections 545.157(c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), or 545.421. Furthermore, it modifies Section 545.157(c) to increase the penalties for violations, establishing a fine range of $500 to $1,250 for a first offense, and escalating fines for subsequent offenses. Notably, it reclassifies certain violations resulting in bodily injury to another as a Class A misdemeanor or a state jail felony for repeat offenders.

The bill stipulates that the changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any offenses occurring prior to this date will be governed by the existing law. This approach allows for a clear transition to the new legal framework while maintaining accountability for past actions under the previous regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 521.292, Transportation Code 545.157 (Transportation Code 545, Transportation Code 521)