Issue Position: Reducing DUI

Issue Position

For the past two sessions, I have carried bills to require that all first time DUI offenders be required to install interlock devices on all cars they drive for six months. This bill says to offenders, stop drinking for six months. If that is too hard for you to do on your own, get help.

Montana's DUI traffic death rate is one of the highest in the nation. How often have we read about Montanans who were arrested for their fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth DUI? Immediate consequences make a difference, can change lives, and certainly will save lives. The stories are heartbreaking and the lists of them are long.

Attorney General Steve Bullock's 24-7 campaign is making a difference for people convicted of a second DUI. These offenders are tested twice a day for alcohol and pay the low costs themselves.

My bill will address the issue for a first DUI. It is strongly supported by Mother's Against Drunk Driving. Alcohol-related traffic deaths have been dramatically reduced in states that have enacted this legislation.

Source