The proposed bill seeks to amend Washington's impaired driving laws 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 a similar limit, resulting in a notable decrease in alcohol-related fatalities. The bill addresses the concerning rise in impaired driving incidents in Washington, which saw a 59% increase in crashes involving impaired drivers from 2019 to 2023. Key amendments include updates to RCW 46.61.502 and RCW 46.61.504, which now define driving under the influence with a BAC of 0.05 or higher, and outline penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines, while also providing affirmative defenses for individuals who consumed alcohol after driving.

In addition to lowering the BAC limit, the bill introduces stricter penalties and monitoring requirements for DUI offenders, particularly for those with higher alcohol concentrations or prior offenses. Offenders with a BAC of less than 0.15 will face a minimum of 90 days of imprisonment and a six-month sobriety program, while those with a BAC of 0.15 or higher will face a minimum of 120 days of imprisonment. The legislation emphasizes the use of ignition interlock devices and alcohol monitoring technologies, and it mandates that offenders pay for electronic monitoring costs. The bill also clarifies the administration of breath tests and the rights of individuals regarding testing, while establishing a public information campaign to educate the community about these changes. Overall, the bill aims to enhance public safety by imposing stricter consequences for DUI offenses and ensuring effective monitoring and treatment for offenders.

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