Senate Bill 248 proposes amendments to existing laws regarding ignition interlock devices (IIDs) and the eligibility for occupational licenses following operating while intoxicated (OWI) offenses. The bill mandates that if a person with an IID order has three or more violations within a 60-day period, tampers with the IID, or removes it without authorization, their operating privilege restriction will be extended by 180 days for each occurrence. Additionally, the bill eliminates the previous waiting periods for applying for an occupational license after a first OWI offense or refusal to take a test, allowing individuals to apply immediately upon installation of an IID on any vehicle they operate.

The bill also modifies the eligibility criteria for obtaining an occupational license after a revocation due to OWI offenses. Specifically, it removes the 45-day waiting period that previously applied after a second or subsequent OWI conviction, allowing individuals to apply for an occupational license as soon as they have installed an IID. Furthermore, the bill introduces new definitions and processes for documenting violations detected by IIDs, ensuring that individuals have the opportunity to contest violations based on verified documentation. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the enforcement of IID restrictions while providing more immediate access to occupational licenses for individuals seeking to regain their driving privileges.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 343.30(1q)(b)3, 343.30, 343.30(1q)(b)4, 343.305(10)(b)2, 343.305