HB218 Alabama 2021 Session

Updated Feb 26, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Parker MooreRepresentative
Republican
Co-Sponsor: Rex Reynolds
Session: Regular Session 2021
Title: Motor vehicles, driving offenses, administrative suspension periods revised for certain driving offenses, Secs. 32-5-192, 32-5A-195, 32-5A-304 am'd.
Summary: HB218 would revise the administrative suspension periods for certain driving offenses and update the code language to current style.
What This Bill Does
The bill changes how long a driver's license can be administratively suspended for refusing to take a chemical test after a DUI arrest, with specific timeframes based on the number of prior refusals. It also updates and clarifies the rules for suspensions and denials of driving privileges for both residents and nonresidents, and for sharing conviction records with other states. Additionally, it makes nonsubstantive, technical updates to modernize the language in the relevant code sections and establishes hearing and notice processes related to these suspensions.

Who It Affects
Drivers who are arrested for driving under the influence and may refuse a chemical test (both residents and nonresidents), who would face administrative suspensions of 90 days for a first refusal, 1 year for a second or subsequent refusal, 3 years for a third refusal, and 5 years for a fourth or subsequent refusal.
Nonresident drivers, whose driving privilege can be suspended or denied under the same refusal rules, and who may have records shared with their home state when applicable.

Key Provisions
Amends §32-5-192 to revise implied-consent testing rules and establish administrative suspensions for refusing a chemical test (initial 90-day suspension for a first refusal; longer suspensions for additional refusals; with a process for tests other than blood if a test is refused).
Amends §32-5A-195 to authorize license cancellation/suspension for residents and nonresidents, require record sharing of convictions with other states, and outline actions following conviction or cancellation (including nonresident implications).
Amends §32-5A-304 to set the duration of driving-privilege suspensions based on driving history (90 days up to 5 years, with 1–3–5-year steps depending on prior enforcement contacts) and define how those contacts are counted and credited, plus related notice, hearing, and suspension-review provisions.
Effective date: the act takes effect on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Motor Vehicles