Legislation sponsored by Senate Transportation Committee Chairman John Rafferty (R-Montgomery) to crack down on drunk drivers who put minors at risk has been signed into law.
Act 39 of 2012 increases penalties for drunk drivers who have a minor in the vehicle with them when the violation occurs. The maximum fine for a first offense will be $1,000 and 100 hours of community service. A second offense will carry a maximum fine of $2,500 and imprisonment of up to six months. Drivers convicted of subsequent offenses can be jailed for up to two years.
Fines and imprisonment required under the new law will apply on top of previously enacted penalties.
"It’s bad enough that drunk drivers endanger themselves and others on the road. Enactment of this law sends that message that putting a child at risk through such reckless behavior is unconscionable and will not be tolerated,” said Rafferty.

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