The proposed bill amends Section 32-5A-191 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to implement stricter regulations for individuals convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), particularly first-time offenders. Key provisions include the mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in the offender's vehicle, with proof of installation required to obtain a restricted driver license after a 90-day suspension. Offenders must maintain this restricted license for at least 180 days before applying for the restoration of their regular license. The bill also introduces a 30-day suspension of driving privileges for first-time offenders with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.02 and 0.08 percent, while ensuring confidentiality regarding their arrest and conviction records. Additionally, individuals under 21 with a BAC of 0.02 or higher will face similar penalties, including license suspension and mandatory attendance in a DUI or substance abuse program.

Further amendments in the bill establish increased penalties for repeat DUI offenders, including higher fines and mandatory imprisonment terms based on the number of convictions. For instance, a second conviction incurs fines ranging from $1,100 to $5,100 and a minimum of five days in jail, while a third conviction results in fines between $2,100 and $10,100 and at least 60 days in jail. The bill also clarifies that reckless driving is not a lesser included offense of DUI and mandates that fines collected from DUI violations will be allocated to specific state funds. Additionally, it outlines the process for handling ignition interlock device requirements and establishes a fee structure for restricted driver’s licenses. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and includes provisions for individuals under 19 years of age adjudicated in juvenile court, as well as retroactive applicability for certain conditions related to driver license suspensions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-5A-191, 32-5A-191
Engrossed: 32-5A-191, 32-5A-191