H8097

Adds criminal penalties for operation of a motor vehicle after a suspension for lack of physical or mental fitness, or as a result of frequency of offenses pursuant to § 31-11-7 (a)(1)(i) or as result of a court ordered suspension.

Introduced·2/27/26
Introduced Text

Rhode Island H8097 adds criminal penalties for driving after license suspension for lack of fitness or frequent offenses.

Rhode Island H8097 amends the state's laws to impose criminal penalties for operating a motor vehicle after a license suspension due to lack of physical or mental fitness or frequent offenses. The bill specifies that a first conviction results in a misdemeanor, a second conviction within five years results in a felony, and subsequent convictions lead to license revocation. The Division of Motor Vehicles must suspend or deny a license for at least six months for a first conviction and for one year for a second conviction. The bill takes effect upon passage.

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  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
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  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

DDD
3
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Apr 28

12:00 AM

House Judiciary Hearing

History

Apr 28

House

Committee recommended measure be held for further study

Apr 24

House

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/28/2026)

Feb 27

House

Introduced, referred to House Judiciary