The bill amends Section 31-11-18.1 of the General Laws concerning the operation of a motor vehicle after a denial, revocation, or suspension of a license for specific violations. It introduces new criminal penalties for individuals who drive under the following circumstances:

1. Operating under the influence of a narcotic drug or intoxicating liquor;
2. Refusing to submit to a chemical test;
3. Reckless driving;
4. Manslaughter resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle or operating in a manner that endangers resulting in death;
5. Three moving violations within a one-year period;
6. Lack of physical or mental fitness;
7. Frequency of offenses pursuant to 31-11-7(a)(1)(i);
8. Any court-ordered license suspension.

The bill specifies that a person will be guilty of a misdemeanor for the first and second offenses and will be deemed guilty of a felony for the third or subsequent offenses.

The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
8097: 31-11-18.1