SB 0809 Summary

• Establishes DWI/sobriety court interlock pilot program allowing restricted licenses after 45 days suspension for individuals with two or more section 625(1) or (3) convictions upon court certification and ignition interlock device installation.

• Expands license denial grounds to include non-licensed individuals convicted of crimes that would have resulted in suspension or revocation if they had held a license, with denial periods matching the sanction that would have applied.

• Modifies open container law (section 624a) to clarify that locked glove compartments and areas behind the last upright seat are permitted storage locations for open alcoholic beverages in vehicles without separate trunks.

• Creates exemptions from vehicle immobilization and forfeiture for DWI/sobriety court participants in good standing whose vehicles meet the program requirements.

• Holds driver responsibility fees in abeyance during DWI/sobriety court participation, with fees assessed upon program completion under the standard payment schedule.