This bill amends the penalties associated with refusing consent to alcohol testing and modifies the consequences for aggravated driving while intoxicated (DWI). Specifically, it increases the suspension period for a first refusal from 180 days to one year and for subsequent refusals from two years to three years. Additionally, the bill introduces new language that allows a court to suspend up to 180 days of the license suspension for individuals who plead guilty or nolo contendere to certain offenses. The bill also clarifies the definitions of prior convictions and refusals, ensuring that they include equivalent offenses from out-of-state jurisdictions.

Furthermore, the bill establishes stricter penalties for aggravated DWI offenses, including a mandatory minimum sentence of 17 consecutive days in a county correctional facility, a fine of at least $750, and the requirement to install an interlock device. The driver's license may be revoked for a minimum of 18 months, with the possibility of extension, and the court may mandate compliance with a substance use disorder evaluation and service plan. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to have indeterminable fiscal impacts on state and local expenditures related to the judicial and correctional systems.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 265-A:14, 265-A:18