Senate Bill No. SLS 26RS-446, introduced by Senator Boudreaux, aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding misdemeanor DUI offenses by mandating substance use disorder screenings for all offenders. The bill amends existing laws related to operating a vehicle while impaired, specifically addressing first and second offenses. Key provisions include the requirement for offenders to participate in a court-approved substance abuse program that must now include a screening to assess the risk of a substance use disorder. This screening tool is to be evidence-based and validated for the impaired driving population, with findings reported confidentially to the court and relevant parties. If the screening indicates a potential disorder, the court may order a further assessment by a licensed clinician.

Additionally, the bill updates the terminology from "substance abuse disorder" to "substance use disorder" and establishes that the mandatory screening results will be confidential. The legislation will be known as the "Judge Jules Edwards, III Impaired Driving Prevention Act" and is set to take effect on August 1, 2026. The bill retains existing penalties for DUI offenses while enhancing the conditions for probation, ensuring that the treatment and assessment processes are tailored to individual offenders based on their specific needs.

Statutes affected:
SB118 Original: 14:1(A)(1), 14:2(A)(1)
SB118 Engrossed: 14:1(A)(1), 14:2(A)(1)
SB118 Reengrossed: 14:1(A)(1), 14:2(A)(1)