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Stricter Penalties for Impaired Driving with Child Passengers

New rules aim to enhance child safety by imposing tougher penalties on drivers who operate a vehicle while intoxicated or impaired, with a child passenger inside. States failing to adopt these changes risk losing federal highway funds. Citizens should be aware that such behavior will lead to more severe legal consequences.
Key points
Drivers impaired with a child (under 16) in the vehicle may face felony charges with up to 4 years imprisonment.
Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock system for at least 6 months for convicted drivers.
Driver's license suspension during prosecution, with an option to drive with an ignition interlock system.
Required alcohol/substance abuse assessment and potential treatment for convicted individuals.
Reporting to child abuse registries if the offender is the child's parent or guardian.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_3676
Sponsor: Rep. Rice, Kathleen M. [D-NY-4]
Process start date: 2021-06-01