The bill amends Chapter 31-10 of the General Laws by adding 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 suspending licenses, courts may order community service or allow payment in installments for those found guilty but lacking financial means. Additionally, the bill prevents any court, department, division, or agency of the state from suspending a person's operator's or chauffeur's license or vehicle registration for failure to pay child support, taxes, court costs, or other financial obligations, limiting such suspensions to convictions of driving offenses.

The bill also introduces new provisions regarding vehicle registration, establishing criteria for denying registration and license renewals based on delinquent taxes, court costs, and unpaid tolls. It outlines the notification process for individuals regarding their delinquent status and clarifies that late payments will not be considered an admission of wrongdoing in criminal tax violations. Furthermore, the bill amends Section 31-10-3 to specify eligibility criteria for obtaining operators' and chauffeurs' licenses, removing the requirement for proof of financial responsibility and prohibiting license suspensions without a driving offense conviction. The act will take effect immediately upon passage.

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