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MN Bill Would Permanently Revoke 5-Time DWI Offenders

Minnesota has recently introduced a bill which will take a driver’s license away after a fifth DWI offense. According to Rep. Dario Anselmo, the shocking story of Danny Lee Bettcher, of New York Mills, is what inspired the proposal. In October 2017, Bettcher was charged with his 28th DWI. The proposed bill would build on already steep fines and penalties faced by Minnesotans who are convicted of driving while intoxicated.

Repeat DWI Offenders Face Harsher Penalties

State lawmakers plan to crack down on drunk drivers with repeated DWI charges to reduce the high number of fatal car crashes on Minnesota roads. According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report, approximately 25,000 Minnesota drivers had five or more DWI offenses in 2014. Minnesota’s rate of repeat DWI offenders is one of the highest in the country.

Currently, Minnesota DWI offenders can incur steep fines, license suspension, ignition interlock, vehicle forfeiture, and possible jail time. Criminal penalties are based on the number of prior aggravating factors a driver has at the time of the offense. A first offense DWI is a gross misdemeanor charge. After a fourth offense and/or depending on related circumstances, a DWI becomes a felony charge. A Minnesota driver charged with a first-degree felony DWI can face a minimum jail term of 180 days, a maximum jail term of five to seven years, and fines of up to $14,000.

The new Minnesota bill would automatically revoke a person’s driver’s license with a fifth DWI offense, but some drivers may be allowed to get their license back. The bill would include an option that allows drivers to petition the court to get their driver’s license reinstated after 10 years have passed from the date the license was revoked. The final decision would be up to the court. State lawmakers and law enforcement are in favor of the new bill and its terms to revoke a driver’s license for repeat DWI offenders for 10 years. Police officers say the bill is a good start, but hey commonly encounter drivers with revoked licenses who are still driving using a friend or family member’s vehicle.

If the proposed bill passes, the new rules would apply to DWI violations that occur on or after August 1, 2018.

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Attorney Max Keller
Max Keller

Max Keller has won countless jury trial cases involving misdemeanors and felonies, sex crimes, and DWI’s. He is a member of the Minnesota Society for Criminal Justice, which only allows the top 50 criminal defense attorneys in the state as members. Max is a frequent speaker at CLE’s and is often asked for advice by other defense attorneys across Minnesota.

Years of Experience: Approx. 20 years
Minnesota Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: State of Minnesota Minnesota State Court Minnesota Federal Court 8th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals State of Maryland

What to Do If You Have Been Charged with a Criminal Offense

DWI driving while intoxicated printed on a paper clipped on a board with open fountain pen on a wooden table. DWI While Riding a Scooter

What Happens If You Get a DWI While Riding a Scooter or E-Bike in Minneapolis?

Minnesota DWI laws apply to all types of motorized vehicles using the road. So, you may get arrested and charged with DWI while riding a scooter or E-bike if your blood alcohol concentration is 0.08 or more. The penalties for a DWI conviction may range from driver license suspension or revocation and fines to imprisonment. A conviction may also result in collateral consequences, including job loss and higher auto insurance premiums. A DWI lawyer can minimize the legal consequences or avoid them altogether. So, be sure to retain a lawyer immediately after you get arrested or charged for riding a scooter or e-bike while impaired.
Top view police officer examining criminal record at desk. criminal record impact new charges

Can a Criminal Record Impact New Charges in Minnesota?

People with prior convictions and facing new charges may wonder, “Can a criminal record impact new charges in Minnesota?” Having a criminal record can influence how the prosecution and court will handle your current charges. The court may deny your bail request or impose strict conditions. It may also impose harsh penalties. The prosecution, on the other hand, may be reluctant to give you a favorable plea deal if you have a prior conviction for a similar or related offense.