Allows the medical advisory board to suspend the license of an operator-- authorizes the medical advisory board to order an operator to use an interlock ignition system.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would expand the authority of Rhode Island's Medical Advisory Board — a group of medical professionals that advises the state on driver fitness and safety — to take action against drivers who may pose a risk on the road. Currently, the board can make recommendations about a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. This bill would give the board the direct power to suspend a driver's license if they determine that a person's medical condition makes it unsafe for them to drive.

In addition to suspending licenses, the bill would allow the Medical Advisory Board to require certain drivers to use an ignition interlock device — a small breathalyzer-like machine installed in a vehicle that prevents the car from starting if the driver has alcohol in their system. This option gives the board a middle ground between a full license suspension and allowing someone to drive without any restrictions.

This bill would primarily affect drivers with medical conditions that could impair their ability to safely operate a vehicle, as well as potentially drivers with alcohol-related concerns. It gives medical professionals on the advisory board more direct enforcement tools, rather than simply making recommendations to other state agencies.

As of now, the bill has been referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee and is scheduled for a hearing in March 2026, but no final vote has been taken. It remains in the early stages of the legislative process.