House Bill 2506 would have raised a felony DUI conviction in Washington State from a Class C felony to a Class B felony charge. However, after a public hearing this week, the bill was voted down at the House, reports The News Tribune.

Representative Brad Klippert of Kennewick was one of the primary sponsors of the bill. He stated that the purpose of the bill was to give judges authority to order community custody and other treatment options following an individual's prison sentence. Judges do not have this authority for Class C felonies. However, under the Class B felony guidelines a judge would have the discretion to order additional treatment to help prevent a convict from reoffending.

In addition, the House Bill 2506 would have increased maximum sentences for felony DUIs from five years to ten years. Fines would have also doubled from $10,000 to $20,000. Someone is typically charged with a felony DUI following four DUI convictions.

Several opponents to the bill spoke up at the public hearing. One group spoke on behalf of medicinal marijuana users and said that the bill could hurt individuals who smoke marijuana to help with medical problems.

While House Bill 2506 was shot down, you should still be aware that there are other pending DUI laws before the state legislature. As a result, if you are charged with drunk driving, you should know that you face quickly-evolving and ever-harsher laws.

To learn more about the charges brought against you and fighting a DUI charge in the Seattle and King County areas, you should consult with a DUI attorney. Contact an attorney at Wolff Criminal Defense to learn how we can help you. We are experienced attorneys who have spent many years helping clients like you. Call us at 425-284-2000 to learn more.