Bill > HB1315

This bill aims to comprehensively modify Washington state's laws regarding impaired driving, with the most significant change being the lowering of the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) threshold from 0.08 to 0.05. Key provisions include reducing the BAC limit for drivers, mandating substance use disorder assessments and potential treatment for certain driving-related offenses, extending the statute of limitations for prosecuting driving under the influence (DUI) offenses to three years, and requiring the Washington Traffic Safety Commission to develop a public information campaign about the new BAC threshold. The bill also requires the Washington State Institute for Public Policy to conduct a two-year evaluation of the law's impacts, examining effects on traffic crashes, DUI arrests, community equity, and business impacts in the hospitality industry. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2026, and are designed to reduce impaired driving incidents and improve road safety. The bill emphasizes a public health approach by incorporating substance use disorder assessments and treatment opportunities alongside legal penalties, while also ensuring widespread public education about the new BAC standard.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1315&Year=2025&Initiative=false