The bill amends Section 31-11-18.1 of the General Laws concerning the suspension or revocation of licenses for specific driving violations. It introduces new legal language that outlines the offenses leading to the impoundment of vehicle license plates for individuals arrested for driving with a suspended, revoked, or cancelled license due to certain violations, including operating under the influence of a narcotic drug or intoxicating liquor, and refusing to submit to a chemical test.

Specifically, if a law enforcement officer arrests a person for driving a motor vehicle while their license is suspended, revoked, or cancelled for these reasons, and the vehicle is owned in whole or in part by the arrested individual, the officer is required to impound the vehicle's license plates for a minimum of 90 days. If the charges are subsequently dropped or dismissed, the license plates must be returned to the owner. Additionally, if a court determines that the impoundment would cause undue hardship to the dependents of the offender, the court may order the issuance of temporary substitute license plates under terms deemed necessary to achieve substantial justice. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
214: 31-11-18.1