Increases the penalties for reckless driving from a misdemeanor first offense to a felony, with a penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of between one thousand dollars ($1,000) and five thousand dollars ($5,000).

Rhode Island Reckless Driving Penalty Bill

This bill would significantly increase the legal consequences for reckless driving in Rhode Island. Under current law, a first-time reckless driving offense is treated as a misdemeanor. This bill would change that, making even a first offense a felony — a much more serious criminal charge. Anyone convicted could face up to five years in prison and a fine ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.

The change would affect any driver in Rhode Island found guilty of reckless driving, regardless of whether it is their first time being charged with the offense. A felony conviction carries consequences beyond just the immediate penalties — it can affect a person's ability to find employment, housing, and in some cases, their right to vote or own a firearm. This represents a major shift from how reckless driving has traditionally been handled in the state.

The bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process. It has been introduced in the Senate and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee, which will review it before deciding whether to advance it further. No final vote has taken place yet. Those who would be most directly affected include drivers across Rhode Island, as well as public safety advocates and members of the legal and criminal justice community who may weigh in during the committee review process.