Bill > H4998

This bill, concerning offenses while driving on a non-administrative license suspension, amends existing Massachusetts General Laws to establish new penalties and procedures for individuals who operate a motor vehicle without a valid license or while their license is suspended or revoked, and who do so recklessly or negligently, causing injury or death. Specifically, it introduces stricter punishments, including longer jail sentences and higher fines, for such offenses, with increased penalties for repeat offenders and those causing serious bodily injury or death. The bill also clarifies that certain legal procedures, such as "continuance without a finding" (a disposition where charges are dismissed if the defendant meets certain conditions) and "placing on file" (where a case is not formally prosecuted), will not apply to these offenses. Furthermore, it mandates license revocation periods ranging from 60 days to life, depending on the severity of the offense and prior convictions, and states that appeals or motions for new trials will not prevent the immediate revocation of the driving privilege unless the prosecution ultimately fails. The bill also makes technical amendments to other sections of the law to align with these changes.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on the Judiciary (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4998