The bill S.203 amends the penalties for individuals who operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, specifically addressing second and subsequent offenses. It modifies the language regarding the classification of offenses, changing "convicted of violating" to "who violates" for clarity. For a second offense, individuals who have violated the law within the 20 years preceding their second violation will face fines up to $1,500 and a mandatory 80 hours of community service or 60 consecutive hours of imprisonment. For a third offense, the penalties increase to fines up to $2,500 and a minimum of 96 consecutive hours of imprisonment, with similar provisions for credit for time served in a residential alcohol facility.

Additionally, for fourth or subsequent offenses, the bill stipulates that individuals with three or more prior convictions, including one within the 20 years preceding the fourth violation, may face fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to 10 years. The bill also emphasizes that the court cannot impose a non-imprisonment sentence without compelling reasons that serve justice and public safety. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 23-1210
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 23-1210
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 23-1210