House Bill No. 3236 amends the Texas Penal Code to increase the penalties for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated in a school crossing zone. Specifically, it modifies Section 49.04 by adding a new Subsection (e), which states that if a person is found guilty of driving under the influence in a school crossing zone during the applicable reduced speed limit, the offense will be classified as a state jail felony. This amendment aims to enhance the legal consequences for such dangerous behavior, emphasizing the protection of children in school zones.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025. Offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the previous laws in effect at the time of the offense. This ensures that individuals charged with offenses prior to the enactment of this bill will not be subject to the increased penalties outlined in the new legislation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 49.04 (Penal Code 49)