The bill amends R.S.39:4-50 to enhance the Intoxicated Driving Program by imposing additional curriculum requirements for offenders convicted of or initially charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). It establishes specific penalties based on blood alcohol concentration (BAC), including fines ranging from $250 to $500 for first offenses, detainment periods of 12 to 48 hours, and mandatory installation of ignition interlock devices for repeat offenders. The legislation also allows individuals arrested for DWI to voluntarily install an ignition interlock device before conviction, enabling them to request a driver's license with a notation for device use. Notably, the bill deletes a provision related to penalties for certain BAC levels, streamlining the penalties associated with DWI offenses.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that individuals convicted of DWI and related moving violations complete a qualified online victim impact panel course, which educates offenders on the consequences of driving under the influence through testimonies from affected victims and offenders. The course must meet specific requirements, including accessibility, language options, and a minimum duration of three and a half hours, with participants receiving a certificate of completion. The legislation reinforces existing penalties for DWI offenders, emphasizing the importance of education and awareness in preventing future offenses, particularly among younger individuals, and aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding intoxicated driving.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39:4-97.2