Houston, Texas – A new law in Texas, known as “Bentley’s Law,” unanimously passed (143-0) in the Texas House of Representatives and took effect on September 1. Under this law, convicted drunk drivers who kill a parent, guardian, or minor will be obligated to pay child support.
The court will assess the amount of child support based on the offender’s financial status. Payment plans will be made available, with the requirement that payments commence no later than one year after the individual’s release from prison.
Mindy Red, whose daughter Michelle was tragically killed by a drunk driver in 2009, faced financial hardships when adopting her grandson, AJ. The family received no financial compensation during the legal adoption process. Red recounted the difficulties they experienced, including her job loss, financial struggles, foreclosure of their home, and the loss of a vehicle, eventually leading to bankruptcy. These challenges, including the loss of material possessions and her dream job, added to their burden.”