The bill amends Oklahoma law regarding driving under the influence (DUI) by lowering the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) threshold from 0.08 to 0.05 for offenses occurring on or after June 1, 2028. It introduces new felony classifications for repeat offenders, enhancing penalties for those with prior convictions, and mandates participation in alcohol and drug evaluations and treatment programs. The legislation also requires courts to provide written evaluation reports to the Department of Corrections, which must be kept confidential, and stipulates that driving privileges will not be reinstated until compliance with court orders is achieved. Additionally, individuals convicted of DUI must attend a victims impact panel program and pay a fee, while those with felony violations will be subject to electronic monitoring.
The bill further clarifies the admissibility of evidence in DUI cases, establishing that for individuals under 21, any measurable quantity of alcohol is prima facie evidence of being under the influence, while for those 21 and older, a BAC of 0.05 or more is prima facie evidence of impairment. It also repeals previous amendments to Section 11-902 of Title 47, which governs DUI laws, and sets the effective date for the act as November 1, 2026. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability and safety on the roads by tightening regulations surrounding DUI offenses and ensuring that the legal framework is updated to reflect current standards.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 47-754