A bill that was passed into law during a signing ceremony at the Tacoma Washington State Patrol headquarters on Thursday, July 18 will make drivers charged with driving under the influence in Washington face stiffer penalties.

The DUI bill, signed by Washington Governor Jay Inslee, will require two-time offenders to serve a mandatory jail term.  Repeat offenders will also have to prove that interlock ignition devices have been installed in their vehicles. A campaign will also be initiated in selected areas that will constantly check if those who have been previously arrested for driving under the influence have continued to drink and drive.

There were proposals about reducing the number of DUI arrests before a felony charge can be made from the current 5 to only 3, but lawmakers said the state cannot afford it. Inslee agreed with the proposed reduction but said that for it to be realized, the state of Washington must look for ways to raise more funds.

If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI in Seattle, get in touch with the legal team at the Cowan Kirk & Gaston Law Firm by calling 866-822-1230 today. Even with this new law in effect, we may be able to help you get reduced penalties or have your charges dropped.