Someone mentioned to me that Texas has increased its fines for DWI or that it passed a "Surcharge" for individuals convicted of DWI? Is this some sort

Contrary to media reports, the 78TH Texas Legislature did not increase fines. However, the Legislature did pass a "Surcharge" or an administrative fee under a law known as the "Driver Responsibility Act," that took effect on September 1, 2003. The fees under this law are strictly administrative in nature, and are above and beyond, any fines, court costs, probation fees or filing fees that the State already receives in a DWI case. The law basically requires any person convicted after September 1, 2003 of a first offense DWI to pay the State of Texas a "surcharge" in the amount of $1,000.00 per year for three years to keep their drivers license; or any person convicted of a second offense DWI to pay the State of Texas a "surcharge" of $1,500.00 per year for three years to keep their drivers license; or any person convicted of an offense of DWI, that has a test result of .16 or higher with a breath or blood test, to pay $2,000.00 per year for three years to keep their drivers license. These fees are paid to the Department of Public Safety and if not paid within the designated time allowed, the person will automatically lose their driver’s license or the privilege to obtain a driver's license until the money is paid.