Senate Bill 678 proposes an amendment to Wisconsin's statutes regarding preliminary screening tests for individuals suspected of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (OWI). The bill allows law enforcement officers to request a sample of a person's breath or oral fluids, or both, for preliminary screening, expanding the current law which only permits breath samples. This change aims to enhance the tools available to law enforcement in assessing potential OWI violations.

The bill also clarifies that the results of these preliminary screening tests, whether from breath or oral fluids, can be used by officers to determine whether to make an arrest for OWI violations or to request further chemical tests. However, similar to the existing regulations for breath tests, the results of these preliminary screenings will not be admissible in court except to establish probable cause for an arrest or to demonstrate that a chemical test was properly requested. The amendment reflects a broader approach to detecting intoxication and aims to improve public safety on the roads.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 343.303