Working over the weekend, state lawmakers reached a tentative agreement on the proposed new DUI laws, reports The Seattle Times. However, a special session may be necessary to hammer out some of the budgetary issues that remain.

Despite the news, Washington Governor Jay Inslee says that the two sides are still "light years apart" on finalizing the deal. The differences that remain primarily focus on financial concerns. Lawmakers are set to return on May 13 to discuss the bill further.

Some specifics of the proposed DUI law that have been agreed upon include:

• Individuals arrested for a suspected repeat DUI would have to remain in jail until seeing a judge. Right now, offenders can be released from jail with only a court summons.
• After release, a driver would have five days to install an ignition-interlock device.
• Penalties for repeat DUI offenders would be increased by several months.
• Someone charged with a fourth DUI faces a felony charge. Right now, felony charges typically attach to a fifth DUI.

What The Proposed Laws Mean for You

Despite everything you may hear in the news, these new DUI laws are still just proposed laws and nothing has been enacted. Financial obstacles are no small deal and it is very possible that we may see the laws significantly changed again before being passed.

However, the current attitude of lawmakers and the public against DUI defendants is very real and if you face DUI charges, you will want an experienced Seattle DUI attorney on your side to ensure that your rights are represented.

Contact the attorneys at Wolff Criminal Defense if you have any questions about a DUI charge and how changes in the law may affect you. We are experienced advocates and can defend your rights and protect your interests throughout the criminal and administrative process. Contact the attorneys directly 425-284-2000 to schedule a consultation.