The bill amends Chapter 31-27 of the General Laws, focusing on penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. A new section, 31-27-2, establishes that individuals convicted of DUI or refusal to submit to a chemical test must have an ignition interlock system installed in their vehicle as part of their sentence before being eligible for license reinstatement. The legislation specifies that individuals with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher will face penalties, including mandatory fines, community service, and potential imprisonment, with specific timeframes for the ignition interlock system based on the number of violations.
The bill also introduces stricter penalties for repeat offenders, including longer license suspensions and mandatory treatment programs. It requires attendance at special courses and participation in alcohol or drug treatment programs. Additionally, the bill establishes an ignition interlock system fund, which offenders will contribute to, and mandates that all ignition interlock systems be equipped with a camera for driver identification. Violations of the ignition interlock order are classified as misdemeanors. The act will take effect upon passage.