Alberta’s new drunk driving legislation – one of the stiffest in the country -- has now passed.
Under the new legislation, if a person is caught driving with a blood alcohol level from 0.05 to 0.08, his license would be suspended for 3 days, and his car could also be seized for the same period. That's an increase from the standard 24-hour suspension currently being handed out to those caught driving drunk.
For repeat offenders, the penalties would also increase incrementally.
In a news release sent out late Tuesday night, Minister of Transportation Ray Danyluk says “Impaired driving is preventable and Alberta will pursue coordinated actions that are proven to change behaviours when taken together.”
When the legislation will take effect is still not known.
“I find it hard to implement any of the legislation before Christmas," Danyluk told reporters today at the legislature.
“I's going to take some time to train the police,” admits Solicitor General Johnathon Denis, “but I'd also like to see an education campaign for the public.”
There has been a lot of opposition to the bill, mainly from the hospitality industry, who are concerned the law will hurt business as less people will be willing to have a drink.
But the government moved forward saying safety was more important.
“This new legislation is one important step toward making Alberta’s roads safer,” said Minister of Justice and Attorney General Verlyn Olson. “It’s now up to all Albertans to take the next steps forward by making smart choices when it comes to drinking and driving and encouraging others to do the same.”
With files from Vassy Kapelos
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