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 9 months and for subsequent refusals from 2 years to 3 years. Additionally, the bill introduces new language that expands the definition of prior convictions to include offenses from out-of-state jurisdictions. A new provision allows courts to suspend up to 180 days of the license suspension for individuals who plead guilty or nolo contendere to certain DWI offenses.

Furthermore, the bill establishes stricter penalties for aggravated DWI offenses, including mandatory minimum fines, jail time, and the requirement for a substance use disorder evaluation. It mandates the installation of an interlock device for offenders and specifies that any revocation of driving privileges will run consecutively to any administrative suspensions imposed by the Department of Safety. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 265-A:14, 265-A:18
As Amended by the Senate: 265-A:14, 265-A:18
As Amended by the House: 265-A:14, 265-A:18
Version adopted by both bodies: 265-A:14, 265-A:18
SB620 text: 265-A:14, 265-A:18