DA Announces Fourth of July ‘No Refusal’ DWI Enforcement in Hidalgo County

Photo: A roadside DWI test. Photo courtesy Texas Department of Transportation.

Staff Report

EDINBURG, TX – The Hidalgo County District Attorney’s Office has announced a “No Refusal” DWI enforcement initiative for the Fourth of July holiday weekend, aimed at reducing impaired driving and keeping roads safe.

The initiative will run from Thursday, July 3 through Sunday, July 6, and will involve coordinated efforts between the District Attorney’s Office, local law enforcement agencies, judges, and medical personnel.

Under the No Refusal policy, drivers suspected of driving while intoxicated who decline to submit to a breath or blood test will be subject to a search warrant for a mandatory blood draw.

“Fourth of July celebrations often involve alcohol, and unfortunately, that leads to an increase in impaired driving incidents,” said District Attorney Toribio “Terry” Palacios. “Our goal is not to make arrests—our goal is to save lives. This initiative reinforces that refusal to provide a sample will not prevent prosecution.”

The enforcement effort is part of a broader statewide campaign targeting DWI-related offenses during high-risk holiday periods. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 40% of traffic fatalities during Independence Day involve a drunk driver.

Officials are urging the public to plan ahead and celebrate responsibly by using a designated driver, taking advantage of rideshare options, or staying overnight when necessary.

“Getting behind the wheel while impaired is a choice—and it’s a deadly one,” said Palacios. “This 4th of July, we ask everyone to celebrate responsibly.”

Source — Hidalgo County District Attorney’s Office