Push To Pass 'Noah's Law' Moving Forward

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Cracking down on Maryland's drunk drivers. A push to pass a new law after a Montgomery County police officer killed by a suspected drunk driver is moving forward.

George Solis explains what's next for Noah's Law.

In the past, efforts to pass similar laws never saw much momentum. This time around, support is growing. The bill passed in the Senate with no debate.

It's a line-of-duty death many have called senseless.

"You're drunk, you're over the limit, you're drunk. You don't drive drunk. That puts everybody at risk. My son is dead because of that."

In late December, Montgomery County Officer Noah Leotta was on the beat, cracking down on suspected drunk drivers when tragedy struck.

During a top, Leotta was fatally hit by another drunk driver.

"My son was murdered by this irresponsible, reckless individual."

The driver had admitted to drinking hours before. He also had two prior DUIs.

"I think that's, unfortunately, what it's finally taken is a tough tragedy like this to make it happen."

Noah's Law would toughen up the state's current punishments by requiring in-car breathalyzers for all drunk driving offenders.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving tells WJZ there are more than 140 drunk driving deaths each year in the state.

Passing Noah's Law could reduce those deaths anywhere from 20 to 40 percent.

At the moment, there are two versions of the bill. Those against drunk driving are confident, despite the differences, only the strongest version of Noah's Law will await the governor's signature.

Honoring a hero's sacrifice by ensuring he continues to protect and serve.

"He's still doing good work, and this is going to continue even after this bill passes."

If the law passes, anyone who blows a .08 or higher would be required to get an in-car breathalyzer.

Governor Hogan has voiced his support for the law. Once the differences between the House and Senate bills are worked out, he's expected to sign it.