Boating under the influence of alcohol (BUI) has been a criminal offense in Washington for quite some time, but new changes to BUI laws will significantly increase the penalties for this act. Effective July 28th, the fines for BUI will increase from $1,000 to up to $5,000 and criminal penalties may include up to 364 days in jail. Additionally, law enforcement officers with probable cause will now be entitled to request that boat operators submit to a breathalyzer test, and refusal to comply can come with fines of up to $1,000. Also, boat operators with more than 5 nanograms of marijuana in their system can be charged under the new law.

These changes to the law can have significant consequences for those who are charged with BUI, which was previously only a misdemeanor offense. At the Cowan, Kirk & Gaston Law Firm, we understand how difficult it can be to deal with these types of accusations, and we are prepared to defend those accused of BUI to the fullest extent possible. Call us today at 866-822-1230 to learn more about what we can do to help defend your rights.