This bill proposes significant changes to the criteria for driver's license suspension, specifically eliminating suspensions for reasons unrelated to motor vehicle offenses. It amends RSA 263:56-a, I(b) to specify that a driver's license can only be suspended for failing to pay fines related to moving violations as defined under RSA 265:79, RSA 265-A:2, RSA 265-A:3, or RSA 270:29-b. Additionally, it modifies the reinstatement criteria in RSA 263:56-a, III(b) to focus solely on payment of fines or demonstration of financial inability to pay, removing the requirement for a defendant's appearance in court. The bill also amends RSA 263:57, I to clarify that a justice can suspend a driver's license only under specific conditions and with prior notice to the license holder.

Furthermore, the bill repeals several existing statutes that allow for the suspension or revocation of a driver's license for defaults, noncompliance, or nonpayment of fines unrelated to driving offenses. The fiscal impact of this legislation is projected to decrease highway fund revenue by approximately $955,000 annually, as it removes the ability to collect restoration fees associated with non-driving related defaults. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 263:56-a, 263:57