The bill amends Section 31-27-2.8 of the General Laws concerning motor vehicle offenses, specifically addressing the requirements for ignition interlock systems and blood and urine testing as part of sentencing for individuals convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It introduces provisions that allow judges or magistrates to impose an ignition interlock system and/or blood and urine testing for violations, with specific conditions for compliance.

The bill establishes that if a judge or magistrate determines, after a hearing, that a motorist has failed, without good cause, to comply with a sample request or has tested positive for any controlled substance, the judge or magistrate may adjudge the motorist in contempt of the court's order. Additionally, if a judge or magistrate finds, after a hearing, that a motorist is in violation of an interlock order or has failed to comply with the terms and conditions of an ignition interlock system, the judge or magistrate may adjudge the motorist in contempt and exercise discretion to revoke, modify, or amend the conditional hardship license or ignition interlock order. This may include extending the time period for the ignition interlock system for an additional twelve (12) months and/or imposing an additional loss of license for up to twenty-four (24) months.

The act is set to take effect upon passage, reinforcing the legal framework surrounding the management of motor vehicle offenses related to substance use.

Statutes affected:
5896: 31-27-2.8