Bill > H5896

This bill modifies Rhode Island's laws regarding conditional hardship licenses and ignition interlock systems for motorists convicted of driving under the influence. The bill requires a hearing before a judge or magistrate can hold a motorist in contempt for failing to comply with court orders related to a conditional hardship license. It establishes more specific penalties for violating hardship or interlock orders, including potential contempt of court, license revocation, extended interlock periods, and additional license suspension. The bill clarifies that for a first-time offense involving alcohol or drugs, a motorist may be granted a conditional hardship license after installing an ignition interlock device or undergoing blood and urine testing. The legislation also specifies detailed requirements for testing, including weekly sample collection for the first 60 days, reporting of positive tests to the attorney general, and potential criminal penalties for repeated violations. Importantly, the bill gives judges and magistrates more discretion in managing these cases, allowing them to modify license conditions or impose additional penalties if a motorist fails to comply with court-ordered testing or interlock requirements. The changes aim to more strictly enforce sobriety requirements for drivers with past driving under the influence offenses.

Justice

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