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Controversial DUI Laws in Oklahoma

Driving while under the influence is a risky and dangerous act. In Oklahoma, a first offense suspends your license from 10 days to 1 year, so, it is serious. Oklahoma has some of the stiffest laws that try to curtail you from driving under the influence. However, there are some controversial laws that are in effect or can take effect in Oklahoma.

More articles on DUI Laws in Oklahoma

21 Law

There is a push for the 21 Law, which would raise the legal drinking age to 21. This is to ensure that alcohol-related accidents are curtailed, for many of them are caused by drunk persons under the age of 21.

It is argued for the law that it would protect the development of youths. Alcohol can negatively affect the brain and body’s development, so to outlaw it until 21 ensures that more minors would have better health. Also, the trauma of being charged with DUI under the age of 21 can be devastating for some. It will affect your reputation and could prevent you from getting work as an adult. Likewise, it is said that the law saves lives, since many alcohol-related accidents involve drunk persons under the age of 21, as mentioned previously. It is also a fact that more young people die from alcohol-related causes than any other illegal drugs combined.

Those who argue against it say that as long as you are an adult, which is the age of 18, then you should be able to drink and buy alcohol. Many show maturity at that age and should be able to handle adult decisions at that age.

Interlock Ignition Device

An interlock ignition device prevents your vehicle from starting if your BAC level is 0.02 or 0.04%. It is like a breathalyzer, and it is installed to protect you from getting behind the wheel with any alcohol in your system. Some claim that it is too invasive. However, it can protect lives, especially the one for whom it was put on. In Oklahoma, a second time convictions and up for DUI has to endure an interlock ignition device on his car. Also, any other DUI conviction after that, you have to have an interlock ignition device on your car.

DUI with children under 18 in your car

Oklahoma has stronger laws against those who drink and drive with children in their car. If you were to do this, you could face up to 4 years in jail for a first time conviction, and the DUI fine you would have to pay would be double, say for instance, if a child were not with you; this calculates to a fine of $2,000. For a second time conviction, you face a fine of up to $5,000. So, obviously, it is not worth the risk.

Oklahoma House Bill 3240 or the Aaron Gillming Act

The governor of Oklahoma signed this bill, and it became a law in Oklahoma. Even for a first time offense of DUI, you would have to attend and participate in alcohol and drug abuse substance abuse evaluations and assessment programs.