Legislative Watch 
LEGISLATIVE
Font Resize
 |
|
7/13/06-Gov. Don Carcieri signed a bill into law that closes a longstanding loophole in the state’s law against drunken driving. The new rule stiffens punishments for drivers who refuse to take tests that measure blood alcohol levels rather than risk being charged with drunken driving.
Until now, Rhode Island law has mandated a three- to six-month license suspension for first-time offenders who refuse a Breathalyzer and up to a $500 fine and community service.
The new law, previously H6700 and S2072, will strip the driving privileges of first-timers who refuse to be tested for 12 months, with up to a $500 fine and 60 hours of community service. A second refusal within a five-year period will face up to six months in prison, up to a $1,000 fine and as much as 100 hours of community service.
Subsequent offenders will face even harsher penalties, including up to a year behind bars.
The new penalties are now in effect.
