NH Lawmakers Pass Compromise Bill Increasing DWI Test Refusal Penalties

New Hampshire lawmakers have approved a bipartisan compromise to increase penalties for drivers who refuse sobriety testing, closing what supporters call a major gap in the state’s DWI laws.

The measure raises the license suspension for refusal from six months to nine months—short of the one-year penalty previously rejected by the House. Supporters say the change addresses growing concerns, with police reporting that about 75% of drivers stopped this year have refused testing.

Backers argue the bill improves public safety by discouraging refusals, while some opponents contend stricter penalties could infringe on due process and impact employment for drivers who lose their licenses.

The legislation, backed by Gov. Kelly Ayotte, passed with strong bipartisan support after a shift among Democratic lawmakers helped secure approval. Officials say the compromise reflects a balance between enforcement and civil liberties, and aims to reduce impaired driving across the state.