Bedford Senator Helps Pass Tougher DUI Penalties

Ayotte's public safety agenda also includes veto of proposed paint tax

Apr. 12, 2026 at 9:08am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A dynamic, fragmented painting of a gavel or other political symbol in shades of navy, green, and red, conveying the urgency and intensity of legislative action.New DUI penalties and casino opt-outs reflect Bedford's focus on public safety and community character.Manchester Today

Bedford's state senator Denise Ricciardi is backing a new law that lengthens license suspensions for drivers who refuse alcohol tests. The bill just passed the House with bipartisan support. On the same day, lawmakers upheld Governor Kelly Ayotte's veto of a proposed paint fee, keeping her no-new-taxes stance intact while advancing her public-safety agenda.

Why it matters

The new DUI law reflects growing concerns about impaired driving in New Hampshire, while Ayotte's veto maintains her reputation as a fiscal conservative focused on public safety issues. Bedford voters have also joined several other towns in using a new state opt-out law to block casinos, reflecting community concerns about the potential impacts of large gaming venues.

The details

The DUI reform bill lengthens license suspensions for drivers who refuse alcohol tests, a measure that just passed the New Hampshire House with bipartisan support. On the same day, lawmakers upheld Governor Kelly Ayotte's veto of a proposed paint fee, keeping her no-new-taxes stance intact while advancing her public-safety agenda.

  • The DUI reform bill just passed the New Hampshire House.
  • Lawmakers upheld Governor Kelly Ayotte's veto of a proposed paint fee on the same day as the DUI bill.

The players

Denise Ricciardi

Bedford's state senator who is backing the tougher DUI law.

Kelly Ayotte

The Governor of New Hampshire who vetoed a proposed paint fee, maintaining her no-new-taxes stance while advancing her public-safety agenda.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.