CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A proposed bill in the West Virginia Senate would give courts a new tool to restrict alcohol access for people convicted of driving under the influence.
Senate Bill 602, introduced during the 2026 Regular Session, would allow judges to designate certain DUI offenders as “interdicted persons,” legally prohibiting them from purchasing alcohol for a court-ordered period of time.
How It Would Work
Under the bill, a court could order a person convicted of DUI to surrender their driver’s license or state identification card and replace it with a special interdicted license or ID. The card would be clearly marked with the words “No Alcohol Sale” and include security features such as a prominent red stripe, making it easy for retailers to identify.
For drivers with a prior DUI conviction within the past 10 years, the court would be required to issue the interdiction.
Voluntary Option Also Included
The bill also allows individuals to voluntarily request an interdicted license or ID, giving people struggling with alcohol use a way to block themselves from legally purchasing alcohol. Once issued, the individual must wait at least 30 days before requesting a replacement without the restriction.
Fees and Enforcement
The cost of an interdicted license or ID would be $50, with a $30 fee for duplicates. The Division of Motor Vehicles would develop training for authorized individuals, such as alcohol retailers, to verify interdicted IDs properly.
Why It Matters
Supporters say the bill is designed to reduce repeat DUI offenses by limiting access to alcohol for individuals who have already demonstrated risky behavior. By tying the restriction directly to an official ID, lawmakers hope to create clearer enforcement and accountability.
Senate Bill 602 has been referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee and the Committee on Finance, where it will be reviewed before advancing further in the legislative process
