New law adds harsher punishment for drivers who refuse Breathalyzer — an Ayotte priority

By: William Skipworth

Outlets: NH Bulletin

Published: April 20, 2026

Words: 411

Last Updated: 3 months, 1 week ago

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On Monday morning, Gov. Kelly Ayotte signed into law harsher penalties for drivers who refuse to take a breath alcohol test, checking off a priority of the first-term Republican governor.

When the law goes into effect in 2027, Senate Bill 620 increases the license suspension for refusing a breath alcohol test from six to nine months. Proponents say the change was necessary to reduce a refusal rate of 68%, the second highest in …

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