HB 561: Driving while intoxicated; refusal of tests, repeat offenders, ignition interlocks.

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

Driving while intoxicated; refusal of tests; repeat offenders; ignition interlocks. Permits a court to issue a restricted license with immediate installation of ignition interlock systems for certain offenders charged with driving while intoxicated, refusal of tests, or repeat offender violations. The bill also directs the Commission on the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program to convene a work group to evaluate the provisions governing driving or operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and submit recommendations and a draft report to the Chairs of the House and Senate Committees for Courts of Justice by November 1, 2026. Current law requires various time limits of driver's license suspension for such violations before a restricted license may be issued.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. April 13, 2026Governor's recommendation received by House
2. March 31, 2026Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
3. March 31, 2026Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 31, 2026
4. March 31, 2026Signed by Speaker
5. March 31, 2026Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB561)
6. March 30, 2026Signed by President
7. March 30, 2026Bill text as passed House and Senate (HB561ER)
8. March 30, 2026Enrolled
9. March 11, 2026Senate amendments agreed to by House (90-Y 7-N 0-A)
10. March 10, 2026Passed Senate with amendments (35-Y 5-N 0-A)
11. March 10, 2026Engrossed by Senate as amended
12. March 10, 2026Courts of Justice Amendments agreed to

Showing 12 most recent of 33 actions. Full history