BILL ANALYSIS AB 1385 Page 1 Date of Hearing: May 9, 2007 ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS Mark Leno, Chair AB 1385 (Garrick ) - As Amended: April 24, 2007 Policy Committee: Public SafetyVote: 7-0 Urgency: No State Mandated Local Program: Yes Reimbursable: No SUMMARY This bill increases, from an infraction (punishable by a fine of up to $250) to a misdemeanor (punishable by up to six months in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000), the penalty for operating a motorized scooter while under the influence. FISCAL EFFECT Minor nonreimbursable local incarceration costs, offset to a degree by increased fine revenue. COMMENTS Rationale . The CHP states, "Currently, riding a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a misdemeanor while operating a motorized scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs is only an infraction. Operating a motorized scooter while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is just as dangerous, if not more dangerous, than riding a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This bill would bring Vehicle Code section 21221.5 (motorized scooter DUI) in line with Vehicle Code Section 21200.5 (bicycle DUI) by making it a misdemeanor. Analysis Prepared by : Geoff Long / APPR. / (916) 319-2081