How Will New Washington DUI Laws Affect You?

House Bill 2700 brought plenty of confusion regarding Washington state alcohol laws. Also, the companion HB 2280 took away many of the positive points in HB 2700, making 2017 a year to avoid a DUI at all costs.

The Introduction of a New DUI Sentencing Alternative

When you are convicted of a DUI, Washington drinking laws and statutes dictate the penalty. Typically, there are mandatory sentences based on the number of previous DUI offenses. Before HB 2700, a first-time offender with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) test resulting in less than 0.15 had a mandatory one day in jail. Usually, your DUI attorney can help with requesting electronic home monitoring.

However, under HB 2700, there is an additional alternative that includes 24/7 alcohol monitoring. Therefore, you could now face:

• One day in jail;
• 15 days of electronic monitoring at home;
• Alternatively, 90 days at an alcohol monitoring program.

Ignition Interlock Requirements

Before HB 2700, if convicted of a DUI you would receive an exemption for an IID on an employer’s work vehicle. Back then, you could receive the exemption for 30 to 365 days after the conviction. HB 2700 eliminated that waiting period so that you could receive an exception to the IID requirement for a work vehicle.

Driver’s License Suspensions Following a DUI

Now you may be able to avoid losing your driver’s license, but only if you are a first-time DUI offender. The Department of Motor Vehicles will hold suspension if you enroll in a 24/7 program for a specific amount of time. The BAC results from your arrest dictate this program time requirement.

If, however, you refuse your test, then the Department of Motor Vehicles will automatically suspend your driver’s license for one year for the first offense, two years for the second offense, and three years for your third refusal per Washington’s Revised Code 46-20-308.

Department of Licensing Changes in 2019

In 2019, those convicted of a DUI may be subjected to a hearing from the Department of Licensing and the Department will have 30 days to hold that hearing. However, the deadline for requesting your hearing will shorten from 20 days down to seven days to compensate.

Washington Drinking Laws are Harsh, Contact a DUI Attorney Immediately

If you have been arrested for a DUI, do not let a DUI permanently tarnish your record. Instead, contact an experienced Spokane DUI attorney from Bugbee Law Office, P.S.

Schedule your free consultation at 509-337-5082 or request an appointment online.