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 for first, second, and third offenses, which include fines ranging from $250 to $500 for first offenses based on blood alcohol concentration levels, with increased fines and mandatory community service or imprisonment for subsequent offenses. The legislation also allows offenders to voluntarily install an ignition interlock device upon arrest, potentially reducing their license forfeiture period. Furthermore, it clarifies that individuals with prior convictions in other jurisdictions will be treated as prior offenders unless proven otherwise.

In addition to these measures, the bill mandates that individuals convicted of DWI and related moving violations complete a "qualified online victim impact panel course," which educates them on the consequences of driving under the influence through victim testimonies. The course will have specific requirements regarding accessibility, language options, and duration, and participants will receive a certificate of completion. The bill reinforces existing penalties for DWI offenses, including mandatory participation in Intoxicated Driver Resource Center programs and potential supervised visits to trauma centers, particularly for offenders under 21. Overall, the legislation aims to improve public safety by holding offenders accountable and providing them with educational resources to prevent future violations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39:4-97.2