Gov. Charlie Baker is asking lawmakers to allow judges to hold without bail people who have twice been convicted of drunken driving and are facing a third charge.
Administration officials say the bill filed Wednesday would clarify a legal loophole that was exposed in a recent ruling by the state's highest court.
The legislation would give judges explicit authority to keep in custody, pending a dangerousness hearing, suspects facing a third driving under the influence charge. That option could be exercised if a judge determines the suspect poses a risk to the public.
The Supreme Judicial Court said current law was ambiguous as to whether that option existed after a third or fourth charge.
The Republican governor said the bill would "allow judges to keep dangerous drivers off the road."
