Bill > SB1216

This bill creates a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) diversion program in Missouri. The key provisions are: 1. The judge presiding over a DWI-related criminal case may divert the case to the DWI diversion program if the defendant meets certain eligibility criteria, such as not having a previous DWI conviction or having completed a diversion program in the last 10 years. 2. The diversion program lasts up to 24 months, during which the defendant must comply with the court's requirements, including the installation of an ignition interlock device on any vehicle they operate for at least one year. 3. If the defendant successfully completes the diversion program, the criminal case against them will be dismissed and the record will be transmitted to the Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System (MULES). 4. If the defendant fails to comply with the diversion program's terms and conditions, the court can reinstitute the criminal proceedings. 5. Any defendant who has previously utilized the DWI diversion program and is found guilty of another intoxicated-related traffic offense will be considered a prior offender.