Time is Running Out for .08 Legislation

Supporters of a tougher state drunk driving law hope House passage of the measure puts pressure on the Senate this last day of the session. Even Sponsor Craig Hosmer, a Springfield Representative, isn’t sure how receptive the Senate will be to dropping the legal level of intoxication from a blood alcohol content of .10 to .08. The House does add a ban on open containers of alcohol in cars. Supporters say the tougher measures will net at least $4-point-7 Million dollars in federal funds. Representative Sam Gaskill of Washburn says, beyond that, it’s the right thing to do. Opponents argue the issue is being pushed for political reasons and will have little, if any, affect on drunk driving accidents and fatalities.