Hawaii's SB1285: Tiered DUI License Revocation Proposed

## Hawaii Senate Bill 1285: A Tiered Approach to DUI License Revocation Hawaii lawmakers are considering significant changes to the way driver's licenses are revoked following a DUI arrest. Senate Bill 1285 (SB1285), sponsored by Senators Chris Lee and Karl Rhoads, aims to amend the administrative process at the Administrative Driver's License Revocation Office (ADLRO) and establish a tiered system for license revocation based on the circumstances of the offense. While still pending introduction as of this writing, the bill's potential impact on Hawaii drivers warrants close attention. If passed, the changes would take effect on July 1, 3000. ## What SB1285 Proposes: A Breakdown Currently, Hawaii's administrative driver's license revocation process for DUI offenses typically involves a set period of revocation, regardless of specific details surrounding the arrest. SB1285 seeks to introduce a tiered approach, meaning the length of the revocation period would vary depending on factors related to the DUI incident. While the exact tiers and associated revocation periods are not yet detailed in the bill description available, the concept suggests different levels of severity, likely taking into account elements such as: * **Blood Alcohol Content (BAC):** Higher BAC levels could lead to longer revocation periods. * **Prior DUI Offenses:** Repeat offenders would almost certainly face harsher penalties, including extended revocation. * **Refusal of Testing:** Refusing to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test could result in a longer revocation period than if the test was taken and showed a BAC above the legal limit. * **Accidents and Injuries:** Involvement in an accident, especially one resulting in injury or death, would likely lead to the most severe revocation tier. * **Presence of a Minor in the Vehicle:** Driving under the influence with a passenger under the age of 18 is likely to result in a harsher penalty. The intention behind this tiered system is to create a more nuanced and equitable approach to DUI penalties, reflecting the varying degrees of culpability and potential harm associated with different DUI scenarios. ## Potential Impact on Hawaii Drivers The implementation of SB1285 could have a significant impact on drivers arrested for DUI in Hawaii. Here's a look at some potential effects: * **Increased Complexity:** The tiered system could make the administrative revocation process more complex. Drivers facing revocation will need to understand the specific factors influencing their revocation period and how to potentially challenge those factors. * **Variable Revocation Periods:** The length of license revocation will no longer be a fixed period but will vary based on the specifics of the offense. This could lead to uncertainty and anxiety for drivers awaiting their ADLRO hearing. * **Potential for Longer Revocations:** For certain DUI offenses, particularly those involving high BAC levels, repeat offenses, or accidents, the revocation periods could be significantly longer than under the current system. * **Increased Importance of Legal Representation:** Given the complexity of the tiered system and the potential for longer revocation periods, experienced legal representation will become even more critical for drivers facing DUI charges. An attorney can help navigate the administrative process, challenge the factors influencing the revocation period, and advocate for the best possible outcome. * **Impact on Insurance Rates:** A longer period of license revocation will likely lead to a significant increase in insurance rates once driving privileges are reinstated. ## How SB1285 Compares to Current Hawaii DUI Laws Currently, Hawaii law (Hawaii Revised Statutes §291E) outlines the penalties for driving under the influence of an intoxicant. These penalties typically include: * **Administrative License Revocation:** This is a separate process from criminal court proceedings and is handled by the ADLRO. The length of revocation varies based on the number of prior offenses. * **Criminal Penalties:** These penalties can include fines, jail time, community service, and mandatory substance abuse treatment. The severity of the penalties increases with each subsequent offense and with aggravating factors like high BAC or accidents. SB1285 focuses specifically on the administrative license revocation process, aiming to create a more granular system for determining the length of revocation. Here's a table summarizing the key differences: It only modifies the administrative license revocation process. ## Context and Rationale for the Legislation The introduction of SB1285 likely stems from a desire to address perceived inequities in the current DUI penalty structure. Proponents may argue that the current system is too rigid and fails to adequately differentiate between DUI offenses with varying degrees of severity. By implementing a tiered system, lawmakers aim to create a more just and effective deterrent to drunk driving. This could align Hawaii with other states that already use similar tiered systems. Furthermore, the bill could be driven by a desire to improve highway safety. By imposing stricter penalties on more egregious DUI offenses, lawmakers hope to reduce the incidence of drunk driving and the resulting accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Public pressure and advocacy groups often play a role in pushing for stricter DUI laws. ## Practical Information for Affected Drivers If SB1285 becomes law and you are arrested for DUI in Hawaii, here are some important steps to take: 1. **Contact an Attorney Immediately: * * An experienced DUI attorney can advise you on your rights, navigate the administrative revocation process, and represent you in any criminal proceedings. 2. **Understand the Charges Against You:* * Gather as much information as possible about the specific allegations against you, including the BAC level, the circumstances of the arrest, and any evidence the prosecution may have. 3. **Attend Your ADLRO Hearing:* * The ADLRO hearing is your opportunity to challenge the revocation of your license. Your attorney can help you prepare for the hearing and present evidence on your behalf. 4. **Explore Your Options for Restricted Driving Privileges:* * Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible for a temporary restricted driver's license, allowing you to drive for work, school, or medical appointments. Talk to your attorney about your eligibility. 5. **Comply with All Requirements:* * If your license is revoked, comply with all requirements for reinstatement, including completing any required substance abuse treatment programs and paying all fees. 6. **Monitor the Progress of SB1285:* * Track the bill's progress through the Hawaii State Legislature's website. Public hearings may be scheduled, providing an opportunity for you to express your views on the proposed legislation. 7. **Consider an Ignition Interlock Device (IID):* * Even if not explicitly required, utilizing an IID upon reinstatement could demonstrate a commitment to safe driving and potentially lead to reduced insurance rates in the future. ## Conclusion Senate Bill 1285 represents a potentially significant shift in Hawaii's approach to DUI license revocation. By introducing a tiered system, lawmakers aim to create a more nuanced and equitable penalty structure that reflects the varying degrees of culpability and potential harm associated with different DUI offenses. While the bill's details are still being developed, it is essential for Hawaii drivers to stay informed about these proposed changes and understand their potential impact. Consulting with an experienced DUI attorney is crucial for navigating the complexities of the administrative revocation process and protecting your rights. It is still early in the legislative process, and the details of this bill, especially the effective date, could change substantially. This article will be updated as needed.