New Legislation Protects Children of Parents who Drive Drunk

Bethel, CT — State Representative Stephen Harding (R-107) co-sponsored a bill in the 2016 legislative session that is aimed to protect children of parents who drive with them in the car while under the influence, according to a release.

An Act Concerning Child Endangerment While Driving Under the Influence, Public Act 16-126, increases the criminal penalties of driving under the influence (DUI) with a child in the car, or when driving a school bus or student transportation vehicle. The increased penalties will be enforced through longer mandatory minimum and maximum prison terms, as well as changes to probation requirements.

“Driving under the influence is never acceptable, but with a child in the car? These increased penalties should have been implemented years ago,” said Rep Harding.

The bill was signed by Gov. Dannel Malloy on Friday, June 10, and will be implemented on October 1, 2016.

Visit www.cga.ct.gov to track more bills that Rep. Harding has co-sponsored this session.   

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