HB 1531 Summary

• Amends Section 431:10C-117 to make mandatory the suspension of a driver's license for operating a motor vehicle without valid insurance, replacing the previous discretionary provision.

• Establishes license suspension penalties of six months for the first conviction and two years for subsequent offenses within a five-year period.

• Maintains fine structure of $500 for first offense and minimum $1,500 for subsequent offenses within five years, with court discretion to suspend fines if defendant obtains current insurance.

• Adds community service option of 75-100 hours for first offense and 200-275 hours for second offense upon defendant's request, with discretionary community service for subsequent offenses.

• Creates additional penalties for multiple convictions within five years, including potential imprisonment up to 30 days, vehicle registration suspension or revocation, and vehicle impoundment or sale.