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New Ignition Interlock License Proposed In State Legislature
The Washington State Legislature is to consider bills creating a new "Ignition Interlock License." Under current law, when a driver's license is suspended by the Department of Licensing under the implied consent law for a DUI or Physical Control, the driver may apply for an occupational license after 30 days have passed. The new "Ignition Interlock License" would allow a driver to immediately get the license and continue driving. There are some trade-offs for the driver. To get the "Ignition Interlock License," the driver would have to waive a hearing before the DOL. The new legislation eliminates occupational licenses.
Fifth DUI becomes a Felony
Effective July 1, 2007, a fifth conviction of DUI within 10 years is a felony. If a person has a previous conviction for Vehicular Homicide or Vehicular Assault during which a person was under the influence, then a subsequent conviction of a DUI will also be a felony. Formerly all DUI's were ranked as gross misdemeanors.
Increased Penalties for BUI
With the passage of SB 5711, the Legislature increased the penalties for Boating Under the Influence. A person convicted of Vehicular Assault or Vehicular Homicide will have an increased sentence if the person had a conviction for BUI. If a person is convicted of Assault or Homicide by Watercraft, a prior conviction for DUI will increase the person's sentence.
AA and treatment banned as conditions of release
Division I of the Court of Appeals decided that imposition of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and alcohol evaluation and treatment as conditions of pretrial release violate the United States and Washington State Constitutions. Courts may no longer impose AA meetings or alcohol evaluation and treatment as conditions of pretrial release.
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