Bill to increase DUI penalties passes Rhode Island House, headed to Senate

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island House of Representatives has passed legislation that would strengthen the penalties for DUI and reckless driving offenses.

The first bill would provide an increased range for all driving offenses that result in serious injury or death.

It would also allow for the permanent revocation of drivers licenses.

The second bill would extend the “lookback” period for repeat offenses from five to ten years.

Prosecutors could then hold offenders accountable for their history of driving under the influence and repeat offenses for failure or refusal to submit a chemical test.

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration, where it is expected to pass.