After decades of rising roadway fatalities and mounting pressure from victims’ families, California lawmakers have finally taken action. On February 12, 2026, a bipartisan coalition unveiled what’s being called the biggest crackdown on drunk and dangerous drivers in over 20 years: a sweeping package of 10 bills designed to fundamentally change how the state handles DUI offenders.
For residents of the Inland Empire and San Bernardino County, these proposed changes could have significant implications. If you’ve been arrested for DUI, are currently in a DUI education program, or just want to understand the shifting legal landscape, here’s what you need to know about California’s historic legislative push to make our roads safer.
Why This Matters: California’s DUI Crisis
The numbers tell a sobering story. California has experienced a more than 50% spike in DUI-related deaths over the past decade; an increase more than twice as steep as the rest of the country. As the CalMatters investigation series “License to Kill” revealed, California currently has some of the weakest DUI laws in the nation, routinely allowing dangerous drivers to stay on the road even after multiple offenses.
This legislative package is a direct response to those failures. Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris called it “California’s largest and most significant anti-drunk driving and anti-DUI push in over two decades.” Her colleague, Assemblymember Tom Lackey of Palmdale, a former CHP officer, said simply: “It’s time.”
The press conference announcing the bills featured grieving family members who’ve lost loved ones to drunk drivers, many of whom described repeat offenders who faced minimal consequences. One father, Anatoly Varfolomeev, whose daughter was killed by a drunk driver traveling over 100 mph, struggled to contain his emotions as he asked: “If this is not a violent crime, what is?”
The 10 Bills: A Comprehensive Overview
Let’s break down each of the proposed bills and what they would change:
1. Make Vehicular Manslaughter a Violent Felony (SB 907)
Current Law: Vehicular manslaughter isn’t classified as a “violent” felony in California, which means people convicted of the crime can serve only a fraction of their sentence behind bars due to early release programs.
Proposed Change: This bill would add vehicular manslaughter with “gross negligence” to the state’s list of violent felonies. It would also add prison time for crashes with multiple victims, increase penalties for drivers with a prior felony DUI within 10 years, stiffen penalties for hit-and-run collisions where the driver had a prior DUI, and expand “Watson advisements” that make it easier to charge repeat DUI offenders with murder if they kill someone.
Impact: Drivers convicted of vehicular manslaughter would serve substantially more of their sentences, potentially years longer than under the current law.
2. Close the DMV Point Loophole (AB 1662)
Current Law: Recent criminal justice reforms made it easier for judges to wipe misdemeanor convictions from criminal records through “diversion” programs. In practice, this means some California drivers can get points added to their license for speeding, but not for killing someone in a vehicular manslaughter case if they complete diversion.
Proposed Change: Ensure the DMV adds points to a driver’s license in vehicular manslaughter cases even when a driver gets diversion instead of a criminal conviction.
Impact: Deadly drivers would face DMV consequences regardless of whether they avoid a criminal conviction through diversion programs.
3. Delay License Reinstatement Until Prison Release (AB 1662)
Current Law: License suspensions or revocations often start at the time of conviction and can actually end before someone is released from prison.
Proposed Change: Require license suspensions and revocations to start when a driver is released from incarceration, not at the time of conviction.
Impact: This could keep licenses away from dangerous drivers for years longer than current law allows, ensuring people who’ve been imprisoned for deadly driving don’t immediately get back on the road.
4. Increase DMV Points for Fatal Crashes (AB 1685)
Current Law: California drivers currently get the same number of points (2) added to their license for killing someone as they do for non-injury DUIs and hit-and-run collisions.
Proposed Change: Increase the number of points a vehicular manslaughter conviction adds from two points to three.
Impact: Drivers who kill someone would accumulate points faster, bringing them closer to license suspension thresholds.
5. Allow Felony Charges on Second DUI (AB 1686)
Current Law: It currently takes four DUIs within 10 years to be charged with a felony in California. Many other states allow prosecutors to charge a felony after two or three offenses.
Proposed Change: Allow prosecutors to charge a second DUI offense within 10 years as a felony.
Impact: This represents a dramatic shift. Second-time DUI offenders could face felony charges, state prison time, and much more serious long-term consequences. This would bring California more in line with other states.
6. Allow Felony Charges on Third DUI (AB 1546)
Current Law: Same as above—California requires four DUIs for a felony charge.
Proposed Change: Similar to the bill above, this would let prosecutors charge a driver with a felony for their third DUI in 10 years. It would also increase the time repeat DUI offenders need to have an ignition interlock device installed and extend the revocation period for driving privileges.
Impact: Habitual offenders would face significantly harsher penalties earlier in their offense history.
7. Revoke Licenses Longer for Repeat Offenders (AB 1687)
Current Law: California takes away repeat DUI offenders’ driving privileges for three years. Some other states revoke licenses for up to 15 years, or even issue lifetime bans.
Proposed Change: Increase the time the DMV can revoke driving privileges for someone who gets a third DUI from three years to eight years.
Impact: Third-time offenders would be off the road for nearly a decade, not just three years.
8. Bar Serious DUI Offenders From Purchasing Alcohol (AB 1605)
Current Law: California has no restrictions on DUI offenders purchasing alcohol.
Proposed Change: Let judges bar people convicted of serious or repeat DUIs from purchasing alcohol by adding a “NO ALCOHOL SALE” sticker to their driver’s licenses, similar to a law recently enacted in Utah. A “Severe DUI” would be defined as an offense with a BAC at least twice the legal limit, conviction for two DUIs within three years, or a DUI causing great bodily injury, death, or major property damage.
Impact: This is perhaps the most controversial proposal. It would create a physical barrier to alcohol purchase for the most serious offenders, though enforcement would rely on retailers checking IDs.
9. Mandate Ignition Interlock Devices for All DUI Offenders (AB 1830)
Current Law: California currently requires ignition interlock devices only for people convicted of two or more DUIs, or a DUI that results in injury. Most other states require them for all DUI offenders.
Proposed Change: Require in-car breathalyzers for all DUI offenders, including first-time offenders.
Impact: Every DUI conviction would come with a mandatory IID requirement. This is the requirement that failed to pass last year when the DMV said it lacked the technology and funding to implement it. The bill is back, and lawmakers seem determined to push it through.
Note for First-Time Offenders: If this passes, even first-time DUI offenders in San Bernardino County will need to install and maintain an IID, adding to the already significant costs of a DUI conviction.
10. Expand Law Enforcement DUI Training (AB 1814)
Current Law: Local law enforcement training varies widely in California. Not all officers are trained in advanced DUI detection.
Proposed Change: Increase DUI training for police officers who work traffic enforcement to ensure they’re proficient in sobriety testing, drug recognition, and report writing.
Impact: Better-trained officers could lead to more DUI arrests and stronger cases against impaired drivers.
What This Means for San Bernardino County Residents
If you live in the Inland Empire, whether in Redlands, Victorville, Barstow, or surrounding communities, these proposed laws could significantly change the consequences of a DUI arrest.
If You’re Facing Your First DUI
The proposed mandatory ignition interlock device requirement would add significant cost and inconvenience to a first-time DUI conviction. You’d still be required to complete your 3-month AB541 DUI program, pay fines and fees, and face license suspension, but now you’d also need to install and maintain an IID for the duration of your restricted license period.
If You’re Facing a Second DUI
Under current law, a second DUI within 10 years is still a misdemeanor. Under the proposed changes, prosecutors could charge you with a felony, which carries state prison time, a permanent felony record, and much more serious long-term consequences. You’d also face a longer 18-month multiple offender program requirement and extended IID installation.
If You’re Facing a Third or Fourth DUI
The consequences would become even more severe. A third DUI could be charged as a felony, your license could be revoked for up to eight years (instead of three), and you could be barred from purchasing alcohol entirely. If you’re in this situation, it’s critical that you consult with an experienced DUI attorney immediately.
The Road Ahead: Will These Bills Pass?
While the bipartisan support for these bills is encouraging, they still face significant challenges.
Financial Concerns: The mandatory ignition interlock device bill failed last year because the DMV said it lacked funding and technology to implement it. Lawmakers will need to address those concerns with dedicated funding.
Criminal Justice Reform Tensions: California has spent years focused on reducing incarceration and providing alternatives to prison. Some of these bills—particularly those increasing criminal penalties and prison time—run counter to that trend. Progressive legislators may be hesitant to support them.
Implementation Challenges: The “no alcohol sale” sticker proposal, for instance, relies on retailers checking IDs and refusing sales. Enforcement could be inconsistent.
That said, the political momentum is undeniable. The press conference featured Democrats and Republicans standing together, victims’ families sharing heartbreaking stories, and law enforcement leaders calling for change. Governor Newsom has been publicly called upon to support the package, and the legislative deadline is approaching.
Lawmakers have said to expect a few more bills before the deadline to introduce new legislation, as well as formal audits into DMV records and how California spends its traffic safety funds.
What You Should Do Right Now
Whether or not these bills pass, the message is clear: California is getting serious about DUI enforcement. If you’re currently dealing with a DUI charge or requirement, here’s what you should do:
1. Take Your DUI Seriously
Don’t assume you’ll get a light sentence or that the system will go easy on you. The legal landscape is shifting toward tougher enforcement and harsher penalties.
2. Get Legal Representation
If you’re facing DUI charges, consult with a qualified DUI attorney who knows San Bernardino County courts. The stakes are higher than ever, especially if you have prior offenses.
3. Enroll in Your DUI Program Promptly
Whether you’re court-ordered or getting ahead of requirements, enrolling in a DUI education program shows the court you’re taking responsibility. At Jackson-Bibby Awareness Group, we offer state-licensed programs at our Redlands, Victorville, and Barstow locations, with both in-person and virtual options available in English and Spanish.
4. Plan for an Ignition Interlock Device
Even if the mandatory IID bill doesn’t pass, many DUI convictions already require them. Start researching approved IID providers and budgeting for the installation and monthly monitoring fees.
5. Get Your SR-22 Insurance Lined Up
You’ll need an SR-22 certificate of insurance to reinstate your license after a DUI. Talk to insurance providers early to understand costs and requirements.
6. Never Drive After Drinking Again
This should go without saying, but if these bills pass, the consequences of a second, third, or fourth DUI will be dramatically more severe than they are now. Make a firm commitment to never drive impaired again.
Jackson-Bibby Awareness Group: Here to Help You Navigate the Changes
Since 1981, Jackson-Bibby Awareness Group has been helping people in San Bernardino County meet their DUI education requirements and get back on track. We understand that facing a DUI charge is stressful and confusing, especially as laws and penalties continue to evolve.
Our state-licensed programs are designed to meet court and DMV requirements while providing the education, counseling, and support you need to make lasting changes:
- 3-month First Offender Program (AB541)
- 6-month and 9-month First Offender Programs (for higher BAC levels)
- 18-month Multiple Offender Program
- 12-hour Wet Reckless Program
- Both in-person and virtual class options
- Classes available in English and Spanish
Our certified counselors work closely with the courts and the DMV to ensure your enrollment and completion are properly documented. We’re here to support you through this challenging time and help you fulfill your legal obligations.
Need to enroll or have questions? Contact us at one of our convenient Inland Empire locations:
You can also visit our website at jacksonbibby.com or check out our FAQ page for answers to common questions about DUI programs and license reinstatement.
The Bigger Picture: A Long-Overdue Shift
One of the most poignant moments at the February 12 press conference came from Rhonda Campbell, victim services manager for Mothers Against Drunk Driving California. Her 12-year-old sister was killed by a repeat drunk driver in 1981– 45 years ago.
“For our family, 45 years means 45 years of missed birthdays, missed holidays, and that empty chair at our table for every holiday gathering,” Campbell said. “Grief does not fade; it just becomes part of who you are.”
For too long, California has allowed dangerous drivers to slip through the cracks of a lenient system. These proposed bills represent a fundamental shift toward accountability, victim protection, and genuine consequences for those who choose to drive impaired.
As Assemblymember Dawn Addis put it: “I want to align myself with the idea of compassion. I think California has done a lot to try to be on the compassionate side of the justice system. But I think, in this moment, we have tragically failed.”
Whether all 10 bills pass or just some of them, the direction is clear: California is finally getting serious about keeping dangerous drivers off the road. And for the families who’ve lost loved ones, for the survivors still healing, and for everyone who shares the road, that change is long overdue.
Stay tuned to this blog for updates as the bills move through the legislative process. We’ll keep you informed about what passes, what fails, and what it all means for drivers in the Inland Empire.
Drive safe, stay informed, and if you need help navigating a DUI, we’re here for you.
For more information about this legislative package, read the full CalMatters investigation series “License to Kill” and their coverage of the February 12, 2026 press conference.
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