Bill > SB149

This bill adds wrong-way driving as a new aggravating factor for driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenses, specifically by modifying the existing law to include driving in violation of RSA 265:26, I as a circumstance that can elevate a standard DWI to an aggravated DWI. Currently, the law allows for aggravated DWI charges when certain conditions are present, such as carrying a passenger under 16 years old or driving a vehicle weighing over 10,001 pounds. The new provision means that if a person is driving while intoxicated and is also driving the wrong way on a roadway (in violation of RSA 265:26, I), they can now be charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated, which likely carries more severe penalties. The bill was requested by the department of safety and is set to take effect on January 1, 2026. While the fiscal note indicates that the bill may have some indeterminable impact on judicial and correctional systems, it does not specify an immediate financial cost.

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https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=923&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=SB149