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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Senate Transportation Committee Approves Rafferty Bills Addressing Drunk DrivingThe Senate Transportation Committee today approved two bills sponsored by
Senator John Rafferty (R-Montgomery) that would crack down on drunk driving and
set new standards for the use of ignition interlock programs. Rafferty's first bill, Senate Bill 539, would increase penalties for drunk drivers who have a minor in the vehicle with them when the violation occurs. The maximum fine for a first offense would increase to $1,000 and 100 hours of community service. A second offense would carry a maximum fine of $2,500 and imprisonment of up to six months. Drivers convicted of subsequent offenses could be jailed for up to two years. "Penalties must be increased when drunk drivers put minor passengers in danger," Rafferty said. "Hopefully, this will serve as a deterrent, especially for adults who drink and drive with children in the vehicle." The committee also approved Senate Bill 1184, which would increase the fee that a convicted drunk driver would pay for an occupational limited license from $50 to $100 and only with an ignition interlock system. Drivers who have been convicted of DUI would be eligible for an occupational limited license if they do not have a prior offense, have served 15 days of the suspension, and only have a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock system. Two organizations, Team DUI and Mothers Against Drunk Driving, issued letters in support of Rafferty's interlock legislation. Both bills now go to the full Senate for consideration.
CONTACT: John Gentzel | ||||||||||||||||||||||
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