This bill amends the penalties associated with the refusal to consent to alcohol testing and modifies the consequences for aggravated driving while intoxicated (DWI). Specifically, it changes the suspension periods for individuals who refuse testing. For a first refusal, the license suspension period is increased from 180 days to one year. For individuals with prior convictions, the suspension period is increased 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.

Furthermore, the bill outlines new penalties for aggravated DWI offenses, including mandatory minimum sentences and requirements for substance use disorder evaluations. It establishes that individuals convicted of aggravated DWI will face a class A misdemeanor charge, a minimum fine of $750, and a mandatory sentence of at least 17 consecutive days in a correctional facility, which may be suspended contingent upon compliance with a substance use disorder evaluation and service plan. The bill also mandates the installation of an interlock device for offenders and allows for random drug testing as deemed appropriate by the court. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

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