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DWI law change could give ‘second chance’ to first offenders
Jun 28, 2017

Last week, governor Abbott signed a bill into law that would allow first time DWI offenders to apply for a  “non-disclosure” which would place restrictions on who can see your criminal record, like employers, if you get an “ignition interlock” on your vehicle.

Some say while the law is a positive step, they think more can be done to stop drunk drivers.

The law would give incentive for an ignition interlock device which wouldn’t start a car unless the driver passed a pre-programmed level. Attorney Randy Roberts says it’s a positive step, but more could be done.

The law allows a first-time offender to apply for a non-disclosure, two years after their probation is over if they have an ignition interlock on for 6 months during that time period.

If those convicted of a DWI don’t have a device installed, they have to wait five years after probation to apply for a non-disclosure. It’s a non-disclosure that wasn’t offered under the existing DWI law and a second chance with the hope that fewer people will make the choice to drink and drive.

The law is retroactive, and as long as the conditions are met, will apply for an offense committed before, on, or after September 1. The law also only applies for first-time offenders with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 to .14.

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