CT HB07025

Adds a new offense for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs while a child under 16 years of age is in the vehicle, effective October 1, 2015.

First violation with a child in the vehicle: fine of $500-$2,000, imprisonment up to one year (minimum 48 consecutive hours), probation with 100 hours community service, alcohol/drug treatment program, victim impact panel participation, and ignition interlock device installation for one year.

Second violation within ten years with a child in the vehicle: fine of $500-$5,000, imprisonment 1-5 years (minimum 30 consecutive days), probation with 100 hours community service, ignition interlock device installation for three years, alcohol/drug treatment, and victim impact panel participation.

Third and subsequent violations within ten years with a child in the vehicle: fine of $500-$10,000, imprisonment 1-10 years (minimum 180 consecutive days), permanent license revocation, and same probation conditions as second offense.

Existing penalties for operating under the influence without a child in the vehicle remain unchanged, with more lenient terms for first, second, and third offenses compared to violations committed with a child passenger.