The bill S.203, introduced by Senator Hashim, aims to clarify the penalties for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, specifically regarding the time frame for prior convictions that affect sentencing. The proposed changes specify that the enhanced penalties for second or subsequent violations will apply if the operator has been convicted of a previous violation within the 20 years preceding the date of the subsequent violation, rather than the date of the conviction for the subsequent violation. This adjustment is intended to provide clearer guidelines for enforcement and sentencing.

In the amended legal language, the bill replaces "convicted of violating" with "who violates" in multiple sections, emphasizing the act of violation rather than the conviction status. Additionally, it clarifies that the relevant time frame for prior convictions is the 20 years preceding the date of the second, third, or fourth violation, rather than the last 20 years before the conviction date. The bill also includes a provision stating that it will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 23-1210