The House has passed a bill to toughen penalties for drunk driving.
But some lawmakers say it doesn’t go far enough.
The bill doubles the fines for driving under the influence. And it creates four new felony charges for DUI. It also implements the “24-7” sobriety program – in which a convicted drunk driver can choose to be monitored – either by a twice-daily test, or by wearing a special bracelet that can detect alcohol use.
Rep. Dan Ruby (R-Minot) was on the House-Senate conference committee that worked out the final bill.
"From all parties involved, they feel this is workable," said Ruby. "They feel this will have a positive effect on enforcing DUIs and preventing repeat offenders. And I think we are going to do a great service to the state by passing this bill."
Rep. Ed Gruchalla (D-Fargo) is a former North Dakota Highway Patrol trooper. He had pushed for mandatory jail time for a first-time DUI offender, saying it would be a deterrent.
"Some people can afford to pay a $1000 fine, and some can't," said Gruchalla. "But nobody likes to sit in jail."
The measure passed the House 69 to 23.