California Assembly Bill AB1546

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/26
• Refer: 2/9/26
• Report Pass: 3/4/26
• Refer: 3/4/26
• Refer: 5/6/26
• Report Pass: 5/14/26
• Engrossed: 5/21/26
• Refer: 5/21/26
• Refer: 6/3/26

Caption

An act to amend Sections 11836, 11837, 11837.1, and 11837.4 of the Health and Safety Code, to amend Section 1861.025 of the Insurance Code, to amend Sections 191.5 and 1203.44 of the Penal Code, and to amend Sections 13350, 13352, 14601.2, 14601.3, 23103.5, 23546, 23550, 23550.5, 23572, 23575.3, 23577, 23580, 23597, 23598, 23655, and 23665 of, and to add Sections 23550.1 and 23552.1 to, the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles.

Impact

The legislation is set to revoke driving privileges for extended periods based on the severity and frequency of violations, enhancing previous restrictions on habitual DUI offenders. For example, offenders with three DUI convictions within ten years would face a four-year driving privilege revocation, increasing to five years for those with four or more violations. Additionally, the bill would mandate the installation of certified ignition interlock devices for longer durations as part of the penalty framework.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1546 aims to amend various codes concerning driving under the influence (DUI) offenses, significantly heightening penalties for repeat offenders. The bill classifies certain DUI convictions as wobblers, allowing for an increased range of punishment from county jail time to potential state prison sentences. Specifically, it modifies the penalties associated with multiple DUI violations within a ten-year span, emphasizing stricter measures against habitual offenders.

Contention

Notably, critics of AB 1546 argue that the harsh penalties may not adequately consider individual circumstances or the challenges faced during rehabilitation. Opponents express concerns that state-mandated penalties could disproportionately affect low-income individuals who may struggle with the costs associated with mandated alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs. Furthermore, advocates for reform emphasize the importance of providing support instead of punitive measures to ensure better long-term outcomes for offenders.