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Bill > S1816


US S1816

US S1816
A bill to amend title 23, United States Code, to modify a provision relating to minimum penalties for repeat offenders for driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence.


summary

Introduced
In Committee
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

112th Congress

Bill Summary

Amends the federal-aid highway program to modify the minimum penalties states are required to impose on motorists convicted multiple times for driving while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol. Requires repeat offenders to have: (1) all their driving privileges suspended (currently, a driver's license suspension) for at least one year; or (2) a combination of suspension of unlimited driving privileges for one year, allowing for reinstatement of limited driving privileges, subject to restrictions and limited exemptions as established under state law, if an ignition interlock device is installed for at least one year on each of the motor vehicles they own or operate. Eliminates the current alternative of a combination of suspension of all driving privileges for the first 45 days of the suspension period followed by a reinstatement of limited driving privileges for the purpose of getting to and from work, school, or an alcohol treatment program if an ignition interlock device is installed on each of the motor vehicles owned or operated, or both, by the individual.

AI Summary

This bill modifies federal requirements for states regarding penalties for repeat offenders of driving while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol, aiming to enhance road safety by strengthening consequences for those who repeatedly endanger others. Specifically, it mandates that states must require repeat offenders to face either a complete suspension of all driving privileges for at least one year, or a combination of a one-year suspension of unlimited driving privileges with the possibility of reinstating limited privileges under state-defined restrictions and exemptions, provided an ignition interlock device is installed on all vehicles they own or operate for at least one year. An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer that prevents a vehicle from starting if the driver's blood alcohol content is too high. This change eliminates a previous, less stringent option that allowed for limited driving privileges for specific purposes like commuting to work or attending treatment after a shorter initial suspension period, even with an ignition interlock device.

Committee Categories

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Sponsors (4)

Last Action

Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works. (on 11/07/2011)

bill text


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