Even a single drink before getting behind the wheel could now lead to tougher penalties for Florida drivers. Starting October 1, 2025, Trenton’s Law (House Bill 687) increases the penalties for anyone stopped for driving under the influence. Attorneys who once told people to not submit to tests that measure blood and breath alcohol levels can no longer give that same advice. What once was punished only with an administrative license suspension now triggers a misdemeanor charge.
Drivers who refuse a blood, breath or urine test after a DUI arrest now face criminal charges instead of only a license suspension, even for a first-time refusal. Those first-time offenders may end up with a criminal record.
What changes under Trenton’s Law?
Before this Florida law, test refusal usually triggered an administrative license suspension, and the court could use that refusal as evidence in the criminal DUI case. Trenton’s Law makes the stakes higher because a refusal is now treated as a standalone crime, even for the first offense. The key penalties of the law include:
- First refusal: A second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days of jail time and a fine up to $500
- Second refusal: A first-degree misdemeanor, carrying the maximum penalty of up to 12 months of jail time and a fine up to $1,000
- Additional consequences: A potential driver’s license suspension and negative impact on future DUI cases
- Permanent record: A criminal conviction that can show on background checks and employment screenings
These criminal charges apply in addition to any DUI penalties. This means a refusal could lead to both administrative and criminal consequences.
Why did lawmakers pass Trenton’s Law?
Trenton’s Law honors 18-year-old Floridian Trenton Stewart, who died in a 2023 DUI crash. Lawmakers created the bill to address the perceived weakness in the implied consent law, which allowed impaired drivers to avoid accountability. The law increases penalties for refusal, provides officers stronger enforcement tools and sends a clear message of deterrence.
Accountability behind the wheel
Refusing a chemical test is a criminal offense carrying potential jail time, fines and a permanent record. Trenton’s Law adds new rules that drivers must understand to avoid any serious consequences. Anyone facing this situation should learn how the law works and take steps to protect themselves.