RI Senate Okays Stricter Law For Drunk Driving With Children In Car
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The Rhode Island Senate has approved a bill cracking down on adults who drive drunk with children in the car.
The bill would mean an immediate license suspension for anyone caught driving under the influence with a child under age 13.
The person could also be imprisoned for up to 5 years. Under current law, anyone who drives drunk with a child may be sentenced to up to one year in prison.
Sen. Maryellen Goodwin, the bill's sponsor, says people who drive drunk with a child are committing a much more serious crime that just driving under the influence.
State Police Col. Steven O'Donnell and Attorney General Peter Kilmartin support the bill.
Senators approved the bill Wednesday. Similar legislation is pending in the House.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.
