This bill amends current law to allow drivers who plead guilty or nolo contendere to certain driving violations to request an extension of their fine payment period from 30 days to 90 days. The amendment to RSA 262:44, I includes provisions for drivers to submit their plea and payment either physically, by mail, or online, depending on their outstanding violations or unpaid fines. Specifically, if a driver has no outstanding violations or fines, they can submit their payment within 90 days; otherwise, the original 30-day deadline applies. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision allowing eligible drivers to request a second 90-day extension within the last 30 days of the initial 90-day period.

The bill also includes several insertions to enhance the payment process, such as allowing online submissions and clarifying the conditions under which extensions can be granted. The Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is required to adopt rules regarding the extension requests. The fiscal impact of the bill indicates a one-time cost of $90,000 in FY 2026 for necessary software changes at the DMV, with no expected revenue changes. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 262:44