A new bill would require first-time DWI offenders in Texas to submit to breathalyzer tests before they can start their cars.

The bill, H.B. 189, was proposed by Rep. Todd Smith, R-Euless. The bill states that judges may grant first-time DWI offenders deferred adjudication, or delayed judgement on a charge, as long as the offender was not driving with a child younger than 15. If offenders are granted deferred adjudication, they would be required to install ignition interlocks in their vehicles to prevent them from driving under the influence during their probation periods.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving has publicly voiced its support for the bill since its proposal. Spokesperson for MADD, Toni Logan, said the new bill would not allow a DWI charge to be removed if an individual was granted deferred adjudication. “In the court system, one thing we see a lot of is charges reduced so it doesn’t show a DWI,” Logan said. “There are multiple offenders out there who don’t have anything on their records. That’s not helping them to address the underlying behavior. This [bill] should be a really good alternative.”

If you have been charged with driving while intoxicated, please contact the Houston DWI Defense Lawyers of Johnson Johnson & Baer, P.C., by calling 713-222-0400.