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Senate unanimously backs bill to increase penalty for refusing to take impaired driving test

2 hours ago in Local

California Highway Patrol Sgt. Jaimi Kenyon blows into a breathalyzer held by Sacramento Police Corporal Luke Moseley during a demonstration of devices used to test drivers suspected of impaired driving Wednesday, May 10, 2017, in Sacramento, Calif. Breathalyzers are commonly used to detect alcohol but a new device tested by three of California's largest counties, can detect the presence of drugs in saliva within five minutes. Some officers and lawmakers want the devices used statewide after voters passed Proposition 64 in November, legalizing the recreation use of marijuana. Photo: Associated Press/AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli

CONCORD, N.H.- A bill that increases the punishment and suspension of a driver’s license for anyone who refuses to take a blood alcohol test, that’s suspected of driving under the influence is headed to Governor Kelly Ayotte who says she plans on signing it into law.

On Thursday the Senate voted unanimously to back the amendment to Senate bill 620 that would result in anyone who refuses to take the test losing their license for 9 months.

Originally lawmakers wanted the suspension period increased to 12 months, that way it would be double the current suspension period of 6 moths, for anyone who took the test and failed.

Senate Bill 620 drew a lot of support from lawmakers including the Governor who called the current system a “loophole” and the reason why New Hampshire has the second-highest rate in the nation for motorists who refuse to take the test.

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