An Act relative to offenses while driving on a non-administrative license suspension
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill amends Massachusetts law to increase penalties for individuals operating a motor vehicle recklessly or negligently while their license is suspended or revoked, specifically targeting those who were not eligible for a license or have had it previously suspended or revoked. The penalties vary depending on the severity of the offense, including potential incarceration in a house of correction or state prison, and fines. The bill also addresses repeat offenses and license revocation periods, potentially extending them significantly.
Key provisions
- Increases penalties for operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license, particularly for those ineligible for a license.
- Establishes different sentencing tiers based on the severity of the offense (injury, death, or endangering public safety).
- Increases potential incarceration periods, ranging from 2.5 years in a house of correction to up to 15 years in state prison.
- Increases maximum fines, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Extends license revocation periods, potentially up to 15 years.
- Specifies that prosecutions must result in a finding of guilt.
- Prohibits the use of certain legal defenses (like motions for a new trial) to delay license revocation.
- Modifies the process for license reinstatement if the prosecution is unsuccessful.
Who is affected
- Motor vehicle operators
- Individuals with suspended or revoked licenses
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
2 on record
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Cosponsor
Edward R. Philips
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