The mandatory alcohol education program is delivered by a public or private out-patient clinic, hospital, employer, or union-sponsored program, self-help group, or any other organization, facility, or service, approved by the Department of Public Health. Those who can’t afford to pay the fee for the program must file an “affidavit of indigency” within ten days. These programs involve 40 hours of alcohol education, spanning 16 weeks, at a cost about $600.
Even with the requirement for attendance in an approved program, the consequences are far less serious than a criminal conviction for OUI. A 24D Disposition makes it possible to avoid having an OUI conviction on your criminal record. However, if you are arrested for a similar offense in the future, the initial OUI will be considered a prior offense.