Bill > H0018

This bill proposes to modify Vermont law regarding driving with a suspended license (DLS) by creating a civil violation for individuals who commit a nonmoving violation of driving with a suspended license after their driving privilege has been suspended or revoked for a third or subsequent time within a two-year period. Specifically, the bill changes existing law by distinguishing between moving and nonmoving violations when determining penalties for repeat offenders. Currently, individuals who operate a vehicle with a suspended license can face criminal penalties including imprisonment and fines. The new provision would treat third-time nonmoving violations as a civil matter rather than a criminal offense, potentially reducing the legal consequences for such infractions. The bill clarifies that only moving violations will count towards the calculation of prior offenses, and it includes a provision that violations occurring before completing a DLS Diversion Program will not be counted as prior offenses. The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to provide a more nuanced approach to handling repeated driving with a suspended license violations, potentially offering a less punitive response for nonmoving infractions.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.18