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. The bill modifies Subsection (b) of Section 49.04, establishing that, except for certain specified circumstances, an offense is classified as a Class B misdemeanor with a minimum confinement of 72 hours. Additionally, it 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 Section 541.302 of the Transportation Code.

The changes enacted by this bill 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 previous law, ensuring that any elements of the offense that took place prior to the effective date are treated under the former legal framework. This legislative measure aims to enhance safety in school zones by imposing stricter penalties for intoxicated driving in these areas.

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)