The bill amends various sections of Washington state law to enhance the legal framework surrounding impaired driving and related offenses. It introduces a new sentencing alternative for offenders convicted of felony driving under the influence (DUI) or felony physical control of a vehicle while under the influence, establishing eligibility criteria for a special drug offender sentencing alternative. This includes provisions for residential treatment, partial confinement, and community custody, emphasizing rehabilitation to reduce recidivism. Additionally, the bill updates definitions related to criminal offenses, clarifying terms such as "drug offender sentencing alternative for driving under the influence" and expanding the definition of "serious traffic offense" to include specific nonfelony offenses.

Furthermore, the bill revises penalties for DUI offenses, establishing mandatory minimum sentences and fines based on blood alcohol concentration levels, and introduces stricter penalties for offenders with minor passengers. It also outlines new regulations for the administration of oral fluid roadside tests, ensuring the protection of personally identifying information and the proper handling of biological samples. The bill aims to improve public safety through structured rehabilitation opportunities for offenders while ensuring accountability and clarity in the enforcement of DUI laws. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, following approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9.94A.030, 10.05.060, 46.20.355, 46.20.385, 46.20.391, 46.20.740, 46.20.750, 46.61.5055
Substitute Bill: 9.94A.030, 10.05.060, 46.20.355, 46.20.385, 46.20.391, 46.20.740, 46.20.750, 46.61.5055
Engrossed Substitute: 9.94A.030, 10.05.060, 46.20.355, 46.20.385, 46.20.391, 46.20.740, 46.20.750
Bill as Passed Legislature: 71.24.580, 9.94A.190, 9.94A.501, 9.94A.717, 9.94A.525, 9.94A.633, 9.94A.6332, 9.94A.6333, 9.94A.701, 9A.20.021, 10.05.015, 10.05.020, 10.05.030, 10.05.040, 10.05.050, 10.05.060, 10.05.090, 10.05.100, 10.05.140, 10.05.150, 10.05.155, 10.05.170, 46.20.355, 46.20.385, 46.20.391, 46.20.740, 46.20.750, 46.61.5055, 46.61.504
Session Law: 71.24.580, 9.94A.190, 9.94A.501, 9.94A.717, 9.94A.525, 9.94A.633, 9.94A.6332, 9.94A.6333, 9.94A.701, 9A.20.021, 10.05.015, 10.05.020, 10.05.030, 10.05.040, 10.05.050, 10.05.060, 10.05.090, 10.05.100, 10.05.140, 10.05.150, 10.05.155, 10.05.170, 46.20.355, 46.20.385, 46.20.391, 46.20.740, 46.20.750, 46.61.5055, 46.61.504