Bill > SB5238

This bill modifies Washington state law regarding reckless driving by expanding the definition of reckless driving to include two specific scenarios: (1) driving in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property, and (2) intentionally driving more than 30 miles per hour over the posted speed limit. The bill maintains the existing penalty structure for reckless driving, which is a gross misdemeanor punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. The legislation also preserves existing provisions related to driver's license suspension, which requires a minimum 30-day suspension for reckless driving. Additionally, the bill retains complex rules about credit for previous suspensions and requirements for ignition interlock devices, particularly in cases where the reckless driving charge originated from an alcohol or drug-related driving offense. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and primarily aims to create clearer legal standards for prosecuting dangerous driving behavior, specifically targeting extremely high-speed driving as a distinct form of reckless conduct.