The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1376 seeks to amend existing laws regarding blood alcohol content (BAC) limits for impaired driving and boating. The bill lowers the definition of "elevated blood alcohol content" from a BAC of eight-hundredths of one percent to five-hundredths of one percent for general motor vehicle operation. The BAC limit for commercial motor vehicles remains at four-hundredths of one percent, while for individuals under twenty-one years of age, it is set at two-hundredths of one percent. These amendments apply to various sections of the law, including those related to the operation of vehicles with child passengers and school buses, and aim to enhance public safety by tightening regulations on impaired driving. In addition to the BAC changes, the bill includes provisions for police phlebotomy training and mandates a study on electronic warrant technology. It also ensures that health insurance policies cannot deny coverage for injuries sustained by individuals with elevated BAC or while under the influence of intoxicating substances. The bill clarifies definitions related to impaired driving enforcement and drug influence evaluations, providing law enforcement with the necessary tools and training to address these issues effectively. The amendments are set to take effect on January 2, 2026, with certain provisions effective immediately upon passage.

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