The bill amends New Jersey's implied consent law to include blood testing for individuals operating motor vehicles, alongside the existing breath testing. It establishes a per se standard for driving under the influence of marijuana and certain controlled substances, defining a person as under the influence if their blood contains three nanograms or more of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per milliliter. Additionally, it specifies that any amount of a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance or its metabolites, as well as certain Schedule II and III substances that are not medically prescribed, will classify a person as under the influence.
The legislation also modifies penalties for driving under the influence, including fines, detainment periods, and the requirement to install ignition interlock devices for specific blood alcohol concentration levels. It removes previous language regarding specific penalties for certain blood alcohol levels and emphasizes the consequences of refusing chemical testing. Overall, the bill aims to enhance road safety by broadening the scope of substances that can lead to DUI charges and clarifying the legal framework surrounding testing and penalties.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 39:4-50.2