Bill > S86

This bill, titled "Laura's Law," aims to strengthen penalties for impaired driving offenses by increasing punishments for offenders with three or more "grossly aggravating factors," which are specific circumstances that make an impaired driving offense more serious, such as prior convictions or causing serious injury. It authorizes courts to mandate continuous alcohol monitoring, a device that tracks alcohol consumption, for certain offenders and increases court costs for those convicted of impaired driving. Specifically, the bill introduces an "Aggravated Level One Punishment" for offenders with three or more grossly aggravating factors, which carries a significant fine and a mandatory jail sentence with no parole eligibility. It also expands the conditions under which ignition interlock devices, which prevent a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected, are required for license restoration, particularly for those with multiple prior offenses or who received the new Aggravated Level One punishment. Additionally, the bill adds a $100 fee for impaired driving convictions to support the General Court of Justice.