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Published December 22, 2009, 12:35 PM

Doyle signs new drunk driving legislation

Governor strengthens Wisconsin's drunk driving law with stroke of a pen.

Gov. Jim Doyle today signed legislation to strengthen Wisconsin’s drunk driving laws surrounded by law enforcement officers, doctors and medical professionals, advocates and many who lost family or friends due to drunk drivers.

“This bill is an important step in the fight against drunk driving in Wisconsin,” Doyle said. “We still have a long way to go. The bill is not everything everybody wanted, and it’s not everything I wanted. But it is a good bill and another major step forward to fight drunk driving.”

Senate Bill 66 makes four main changes to current law. The costs associated with the bill will be offset by increased fees and penalties. Changes include:

  • Fourth offense OWI will be a felony if it occurs within five years of an earlier offense.

  • Ignition interlocks will be required for repeat offenders and first-time offenders at or above a 0.15 blood alcohol level.

  • A greater emphasis will be placed on treatment to help reduce repeat offenses.

  • Makes a first offense OWI to a misdemeanor if a child under 16 is in the vehicle.

    “On behalf of Wisconsinites who have demanded safer streets, I thank Governor Doyle for signing drunk driving reform today,” said Sen. Jim Sullivan, D-Wauwautosa. “I think it is particularly poignant that we were able to sign this important legislation into law leading into the holiday season. Our history in this state is full of instances where somebody’s joyous occasion and holidays have been turned into tragedy because of alcohol-related accidents.”

    Rep. Tony Staskunas, D-West Allis, has introduced legislation to combat drunk driving during every session since he was elected in 1996.

    “I am proud to be a part of this momentous step towards strengthening Wisconsin’s drunk driving laws,” he said. “ … I am delighted that this session we were able to pass this comprehensive proposal that addressed punishment, prevention and treatment.”

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