What Does HB 2017 Mean for Intoxication Manslaughter Cases in Texas?

Key Takeaway:
Under House Bill 2017, undocumented immigrants convicted of intoxication manslaughter in Texas now face a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison—a sharp increase from the previous 2-year minimum.

What the Law Says

House Bill 2017 targets one of the state’s most serious drunk driving crimes: intoxication manslaughter. This charge applies when a driver causes someone’s death while operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Before September 1, 2025, the law required a minimum of two years in prison for those convicted. Now, HB 2017 raises that minimum to 10 years if the driver is undocumented. This means judges no longer have discretion to impose shorter sentences in these cases—the floor has been set much higher.

Why It Matters

Drunk driving crashes that take lives leave families devastated, often questioning whether justice is truly served. For years, minimum sentences in intoxication manslaughter cases have been criticized as too light compared to the harm caused.

By increasing penalties, lawmakers are sending a clear message: fatal DWI crashes will not be treated lightly. HB 2017 also highlights how lawmakers are addressing undocumented drivers specifically, adding another layer of severity to these cases.

What Families Should Know

• Criminal vs. civil justice. Even with a 10-year mandatory minimum, families must turn to civil claims to cover funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.

• Consistency in sentencing. The new law reduces the chance of shorter sentences in certain cases, but outcomes can still vary depending on circumstances.

• Deterrence factor. Lawmakers believe harsher sentencing will discourage repeat offenses and emphasize the life-and-death risks of impaired driving.

The Bigger Picture

HB 2017 is one of 835 new Texas laws that went into effect on September 1, 2025. Along with SB 826 (DWIs in school zones) and SB 1886 (blood draw warrants), it reflects a broader push toward tougher DWI penalties statewide. For drivers, it means stricter consequences. For families, it means lawmakers are working to strengthen accountability.

👉 Want to see how this law fits into the bigger picture? Check out our related post: Six New Texas Laws Drivers Should Know (Effective September 1, 2025)

Lost a Loved One to a Drunk Driver? Call Shaw.

If your family has lost a loved one to a drunk driver, criminal penalties are only part of the picture. You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Funeral Costs,
• Burial Expenses,
• Pain and Suffering,
• Medical Bills,
• And More.

Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 for a free consultation with an experienced Wrongful Death lawyer in Texas. No fees. No pressure. Just the expert legal advice you need when it matters most.

We look forward to serving you.