Texas drunk drivers who kill a child’s parent or guardian in a crash are now responsible for paying child support, according to a law that took effect Friday.
Texas House Bill 393, also known as Bentley’s Law, was first filed on November 14 of last year. Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed the bill into law on June 2.
“Anytime a parent passes is tragic, but a death at the hands of a drunk driver is especially despicable,” the Republican governor wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“I am honored to sign HB 393 into law this year to require offenders to pay child support for their victims’ children.”
By law, intoxication manslaughter is only suspended until the child turns 18 or completes high school.
“[T]the court will determine the amount to be paid monthly for child support until the child reaches the age of 18 or has completed high school, whichever is later,” the text read.
The amount of child support depends on a variety of factors, including the child’s educational needs, medical needs and any reasonable child care costs. The standard of living used by the child is also considered.
Any time a parent passes is tragic, but death at the hands of a drunk driver is especially heinous.
I am proud to sign HB 393 into law this year to require offenders to pay child support for their victims’ children.pic.twitter.com/zpNJtRj50h
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) July 25, 2023
Anyone unable to make payments because of incarceration may be eligible for a payment plan.
“[T]he defendant shall begin payment no later than the first anniversary of the defendant’s release from the facility,” the law states.
“The defendant can make a payment plan to address any outstanding arrears at the date of the defendant’s release.”
“The defendant must pay all arrears regardless of whether the restitution payments are scheduled to terminate while the defendant is incarcerated or incarcerated in a correctional facility.” law adds.
Fox News Digital reached out to Abbott for a statement but did not hear back.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
