The bill aims to enhance road safety in Washington State by lowering the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit from 0.08 to 0.05. This change is based on evidence from other countries that have implemented similar limits, resulting in a notable decrease in alcohol-related traffic fatalities. Key amendments to existing laws include modifications to RCW 46.61.502 and RCW 46.61.504, which now define driving under the influence as having a BAC of 0.05 or higher. The bill also introduces stricter penalties for DUI offenses, including mandatory imprisonment, sobriety programs, and electronic home monitoring, with increased penalties for repeat offenders and those with higher BAC levels.

Additionally, the bill outlines new procedures for the suspension and revocation of driving privileges, adjusting BAC thresholds for both adults and individuals under 21. It mandates the Department of Licensing to enforce these new limits and establishes a process for individuals to contest license actions. The legislation also requires the Washington Traffic Safety Commission to launch a public information campaign to educate the public about these changes and mandates an evaluation by the Washington State Institute for Public Policy to assess the impact of the new regulations on traffic safety and DUI arrests. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 46.61.502, 46.61.504, 46.61.5055, 46.61.506, 46.20.308, 46.20.3101, 46.25.090, 38.38.760, 79A.60.040
Substitute Bill: 46.61.502, 46.61.504, 46.61.5055, 46.61.506, 46.20.308, 46.20.3101, 46.25.090, 38.38.760, 79A.60.040