S.B. No. 826 amends the Texas Penal Code to increase the penalties for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated in a school crossing zone. Specifically, it modifies Subsection (b) to clarify that, except for certain specified circumstances, an offense under this section is classified as a Class B misdemeanor with a minimum confinement of 72 hours. The bill introduces a new Subsection (e), which states that if a person is found to have been operating a vehicle in a school crossing zone during the applicable reduced speed limit, the offense will be elevated to a state jail felony. The bill also defines "school crossing zone" as per the existing Transportation Code.

The changes made by this Act will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the law in effect at that time, ensuring that the previous legal standards remain applicable for those cases. The bill passed both the Senate and the House with significant support, indicating a strong legislative intent to enhance safety in school zones by imposing stricter penalties for intoxicated driving.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 49.04 (Penal Code 49)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 49.04 (Penal Code 49)
Engrossed: Penal Code 49.04 (Penal Code 49)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 49.04 (Penal Code 49)
Enrolled: Penal Code 49.04 (Penal Code 49)