IL Lawmakers Cracking Down on Drunk Driving

Illinois legislators are making efforts to strengthen drunk driving penalties to protect their youth. A new bill, co-sponsored by State Representative Chuck Jefferson, would make the penalties for repeat DUI law offenders harsher, particularly if they have children in the car.

Any second DUI offense would be considered a felony charge, which is punishable by a $25,000 fine and up to three years in jail—25 times the penalty for a first-time drunk driving offense.

“Basically we have to protect the children. And children under the age of 16 oftentimes have no say, most of the time have no say on who they’re in the car with and where they’re going,” said Jefferson.

Another proposed bill aims to stop underage drinkers from driving anywhere for three months if they are caught drinking. “I think it sends a strong message to teenagers that first of all you shouldn’t be drinking, but if in fact you are caught drinking, whether you’re driving at the time or not, you driver’s license will be suspended,” Jefferson added.

The bills will go to the state house and senate for approval.

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