The bill amends Chapter 31-10 of the General Laws concerning "Operators’ and Chauffeurs’ Licenses" by introducing a new section, 31-10-3.1, which prohibits the suspension of driving privileges for individuals unable to pay costs associated with traffic offenses or judicial proceedings. Instead of license suspension, courts may mandate community service or allow installment payments for those who lack financial means. Additionally, the bill ensures that no court or state agency can suspend a person's license for failure to pay child support, taxes, or other financial obligations, limiting such suspensions strictly to driving-related offenses. The bill also repeals Section 15-11.1-7, which allowed for license suspension due to noncompliance with child support orders, reflecting a shift towards preventing penalization for financial hardships.

Moreover, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the denial of motor vehicle registrations and operator's license renewals for individuals who have failed to file tax returns or pay taxes. It establishes a new section, 31-3-6.1.1, requiring the tax administrator to provide the DMV with a list of individuals who have neglected tax obligations, prohibiting registration or transfer of vehicles until all debts are settled. The bill also ensures that individuals who subsequently file overdue returns or remit past due taxes are not penalized for late filings when applying for or renewing licenses or registrations. Additionally, it introduces section 31-3-6.3, addressing the denial of registration and licenses due to unpaid out-of-state tolls, while removing certain language regarding "costs owed" and conditions for license denial, thereby enhancing protections against arbitrary suspensions.

Statutes affected:
5259: 15-11.1-7, 21-28-4.1, 31-10-3