FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 6030

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Background: There are many consequences when a person is convicted of driving or being in physical control of a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs. Washington law provides increasingly severe penalties based upon the person's blood alcohol level or refusal of the test and the number of prior offenses within seven years. The consequences include incarceration; electronic home monitoring; installation of an ignition interlock device; fines; costs; assessments; alcohol assessment and treatment; and suspension, revocation, or denial of the driving license.

When a person enters a plea of guilty or nolo contendere or there is a court finding of guilt for driving or being in physical control of a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, the court must immediately forward notice to the Department of Licensing (DOL); DOL must revoke that person's license. The duration of the license revocation depends upon the person's blood alcohol level or refusal of the test and the number of prior offenses.

Summary: If a court finds that the required notice to DOL has been delayed for three years or more due to a clerical or court error, the court may order that the person's driver license not be revoked, suspended, or denied for that offense. Upon receipt of the order, DOL must not revoke, suspend, or deny the license, permit, or nonresident privilege of the person for that offense.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	46	0
House	96	0