The bill amends sections of the Revised Code to update laws concerning operating vehicles or watercraft under the influence of marihuana, specifically by replacing previous language regarding marihuana concentration with references to "delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol." It establishes new impairment thresholds, setting a minimum of twenty-five nanograms of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol per milliliter of urine or between two to five nanograms per milliliter of whole blood. The bill also allows a trier of fact to infer impairment based on these concentrations and clarifies the admissibility of evidence related to chemical tests and field sobriety tests in court.

Additionally, the bill introduces a tiered penalty system for offenders convicted of driving-related offenses involving alcohol or drugs, mandating participation in certified intervention programs and assessments by community addiction services. It specifies mandatory jail terms based on the number of prior offenses, with increasing penalties for repeat offenders, and outlines alternative sentencing options for those unable to serve jail terms due to space limitations. The legislation aims to enhance accountability, promote rehabilitation, and refine the legal framework surrounding substance use and impaired driving offenses.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 1547.11, 3701.143, 4511.19