Harsher DUI penalties pass Washington House
OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — A bill that would require harsher penalties for people convicted of felony-level offenses for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol has unanimously passed the House.
House Bill 2280, approved Monday, would make a driver's fourth DUI conviction within 10 years a Class B felony, rather than a Class C felony.
The bill will now be considered by the Senate.
A Class C felony has a maximum of five years in prison, a $10,000 fine or both.
A Class B felony has a maximum of 10 years in prison, $20,000 fine or both.
A DUI is a gross misdemeanor in existing law.
A DUI for someone convicted of vehicular homicide or assault while intoxicated would also be a Class B felony under the bill.