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

The bill mandates that if a law enforcement officer arrests a person for driving a motor vehicle while their license is suspended, revoked, or cancelled for these reasons, the vehicle's license plates must be impounded for a period of not less than 90 days. If the charges are 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 division of motor vehicles to issue 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