The bill H.18 proposes to decriminalize nonmoving violations for individuals who operate a motor vehicle after their license has been suspended or revoked for a third or subsequent time within a two-year period. It establishes a civil violation for these offenses, specifically when the basis for the third or subsequent offense is a moving violation. The bill amends current law to clarify that individuals who violate the relevant sections of the law will face penalties, including imprisonment or fines, but it introduces a distinction for those with multiple offenses, allowing for civil penalties rather than criminal charges in certain circumstances.

Additionally, the bill includes several amendments to existing penalties for operating after suspension or revocation of a license. It specifies that for third and subsequent offenses, the penalties will not be suspended or deferred, and it allows for the immobilization or forfeiture of vehicles involved in these offenses. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to reform the legal approach to driving with a suspended license, particularly for repeat offenders, by shifting from criminal to civil penalties under specific conditions.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 23-674