Requires persons convicted of driving under influence or refusal to submit to chemical test, have an ignition interlock system installed in vehicle as part of sentence and to pay an assessment to pay for the interlock systems.
Impact
If passed, H6211 would significantly alter the sentencing guidelines for DUI offenders in Rhode Island. It strengthens the penalties for DUI convictions, ensuring that individuals can only regain their driving privileges after meeting the new requirements, including the installation of an ignition interlock device. The expected outcome is to reduce instances of repeat offenses by making it more challenging for individuals with a history of DUI to drive without supervision. Such measures aim to enhance public safety on the roads by addressing recurrent driving offenses related to alcohol and drug use.
Summary
House Bill H6211 seeks to amend existing Rhode Island laws regarding penalties for individuals convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) of intoxicating liquor or drugs. The bill mandates that any person convicted of DUI or refusal to submit to a chemical test be required to install an ignition interlock system in their vehicle. This system must be installed as part of the sentence before the individual can be eligible for reinstatement of their driving license. An additional financial component is introduced, requiring offenders to contribute to an ignition interlock system fund.
Contention
Opposition to H6211 may arise from concerns about the financial burden imposed on offenders, particularly poorer individuals who may struggle to afford the costs associated with the ignition interlock system and other court-assigned fees. Additionally, there may be arguments against the efficacy of ignition interlock devices in preventing further incidents of DUI while also questioning the fairness of imposing stringent requirements on first-time offenders versus repeat offenders. The emphasis on technology to monitor and restrict driving privileges raises questions about privacy and the effectiveness of these systems.
Requires persons convicted of driving under influence or refusal to submit to chemical test, have an ignition interlock system installed in vehicle as part of sentence and to pay an assessment to pay for the systems for indigent defendants.
Requires that any person convicted of a charge of DUI or refusal, have an ignition interlock before being eligible for license reinstatement. Also permits a first-time offender to have charges dismissed.
Extends the "lookback" period for repeat offenses involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs under § 31-27-2 and for repeat offenses related to failure or refusal to submit to chemical tests under § 31-27-2.1 from five to ten years.
Extends the "lookback" period for repeat offenses involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs under § 31-27-2 and for repeat offenses related to failure or refusal to submit to chemical tests under § 31-27-2.1 from five to ten years.
Extends the "lookback" period for repeat offenses involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs under § 31-27-2 and for repeat offenses related to failure or refusal to submit to chemical tests under § 31-27-2.1 from 5 years to 10 years.
Requires that the license plates of a vehicle be confiscated by a police officer if the owner was arrested for driving while their license was suspended, revoked or cancelled for refusing to submit to a chemical test or for operating under the influence.
Increases mandatory liability coverage for retail alcoholic beverage license holders from $300,000 to $1,000,000/Prevents injured consumers of alcohol recovering damages/Increases mandatory min jail sentence for 2nd time violation of DUI of alcohol/drugs.
Requires persons convicted of driving under influence or refusal to submit to chemical test, to have an ignition interlock system installed in vehicle as part of sentence and to pay an assessment to pay for the systems for indigent defendants.
Requires persons convicted of driving under influence or refusal to submit to chemical test, have an ignition interlock system installed in vehicle as part of sentence and to pay an assessment to pay for the systems for indigent defendants.
Requires persons convicted of driving under influence or refusal to submit to chemical test, have an ignition interlock system installed in vehicle as part of sentence and to pay an assessment to pay for the interlock systems.
Requires that any person convicted of a charge of DUI or refusal, have an ignition interlock before being eligible for license reinstatement. Also permits a first-time offender to have charges dismissed.
Extends the "lookback" period for repeat offenses involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs under § 31-27-2 and for repeat offenses related to failure or refusal to submit to chemical tests under § 31-27-2.1 from five to ten years.