H 637 Vermont House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An act relating to operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other substances

This Vermont bill (H 637) amends laws governing driving under the influence (DUI) by clarifying that "under the influence of a drug" means any slight impairment of driving ability from drugs (not just alcohol), per Section 1201. It updates testing procedures, requiring blood or saliva samples when breath tests aren't feasible or when drugs (not alcohol) are suspected, while preserving rights to challenge warrants (Section 1202). For penalties, it increases mandatory minimum jail time for repeat offenses: 80 hours for a second offense, 96 hours for a third, and 192 hours for a fourth or subsequent offense, with no suspension allowed except under specific court findings (Section 1210). The bill directly affects drivers suspected of DUI involving drugs or alcohol, focusing on clearer definitions, testing protocols, and stricter penalties for repeat violations.
Bill status introduced 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 9, 2026 Last action Jan 9, 2026
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Jan 9, 2026
Introduced
Read first time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary
lower
2 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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