NY A09605

Court shall require first-time offenders convicted under Vehicle and Traffic Law sections 1192 or 1192-a to pay for and attend an alcohol and drug rehabilitation program as part of their sentence, if they meet program eligibility criteria.

Judge may prohibit enrollment in the rehabilitation program for good cause, with reasons stated on the record.

Commissioner or deputy may reject participation or expel participants for good cause, with reasons disclosed to the person, and satisfactory program completion terminates any imposed sentence of imprisonment.

Participation remains limited to those with no prior convictions for alcohol or drug-related traffic offenses within the five years preceding the current offense.

Act takes effect November 1st following the date it becomes law.