69.50.425 - Misdemeanor violations -- Minimum penalties.

Misdemeanor violations — Minimum penalties.

A person who is convicted of a misdemeanor violation of any provision of this chapter shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than twenty-four consecutive hours, and by a fine of not less than two hundred fifty dollars. On a second or subsequent conviction, the fine shall not be less than five hundred dollars. These fines shall be in addition to any other fine or penalty imposed. Unless the court finds that the imposition of the minimum imprisonment will pose a substantial risk to the defendant's physical or mental well-being or that local jail facilities are in an overcrowded condition, the minimum term of imprisonment shall not be suspended or deferred. If the court finds such risk or overcrowding exists, it shall sentence the defendant to a minimum of forty hours of community restitution. If a minimum term of imprisonment is suspended or deferred, the court shall state in writing the reason for granting the suspension or deferral and the facts upon which the suspension or deferral is based. Unless the court finds the person to be indigent, the minimum fine shall not be suspended or deferred.

[2002 c 175 § 44; 1989 c 271 § 105.]

Notes: Effective date -- 2002 c 175: See note following RCW 7.80.130.

Application -- 1989 c 271 §§ 101-111: See note following RCW 9.94A.510.

Severability -- 1989 c 271: See note following RCW 9.94A.510.