S.B. No. 2799 proposes to increase the criminal penalties for reckless driving in Texas by amending Section 545.401 of the Transportation Code. The bill introduces new provisions that classify reckless driving as a state jail felony if it results in bodily injury to another person, and as a third-degree felony if it results in serious bodily injury. The existing misdemeanor penalties, which include a fine of up to $200 and confinement in county jail for up to 30 days, remain applicable unless the new criteria for felony charges are met. Additionally, the bill clarifies that if the conduct also constitutes an offense under another law, the individual may be prosecuted under both this section and the other law.

The bill also defines "bodily injury" and "serious bodily injury" according to the meanings assigned in Section 1.07 of the Penal Code. The changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Offenses committed prior to this date will be governed by the law in effect at that time.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 545.401 (Transportation Code 545)
Senate Committee Report: Transportation Code 545.401 (Transportation Code 545)
Engrossed: Transportation Code 545.401 (Transportation Code 545)
House Committee Report: Transportation Code 545.401 (Transportation Code 545)