An Act relative to drug driving

This bill updates Massachusetts laws regarding drug driving by allowing law enforcement to require chemical tests, including those administered by certified Drug Recognition Experts, when arresting drivers suspected of operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The legislation clarifies that individuals with specific medical conditions, such as hemophilia or diabetes requiring anticoagulants, cannot be forced to provide a blood sample, and it mandates that blood tests only occur at licensed medical facilities. Penalties for refusing these tests are adjusted based on the driver's age and prior offenses, ranging from a 180-day suspension for first-time adult offenders to immediate three-year, five-year, or lifetime suspensions for repeat offenders or those under 21. Additionally, the bill formally recognizes Drug Recognition Experts as certified professionals within the state's judicial and municipal court systems.