Drunk drivers could face harsher penalties in Wash. state

A bill that would require harsher penalties for people convicted of felony-level offenses for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol has unanimously passed the House.

House Bill 2280, approved Monday, would make a fifth DUI conviction within 10 years a Class B felony, rather than a Class C felony. The bill will now be considered by the Senate.

What to know about felonies and DUIs:

• A Class C felony has a maximum of five years in prison, a $10,000 fine or both. A Class B felony has a maximum of 10 years in prison, $20,000 fine or both.
• A person's first four DUIs are a gross misdemeanor in existing law.
• A DUI for someone previously convicted of vehicular homicide or assault while intoxicated would also be a Class B felony under the bill.

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Cox Media Group