Governor Tim Walz Signs Rep. Larry Kraft’s Legislation to Reform Minnesota’s DWI Policies into Law
ST. PAUL – Thursday, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed a bipartisan bill to reform Minnesota’s DWI policies. The proposal makes changes in state law to address issues highlighted by last September’s tragic crash in St. Louis Park, which resulted in the death of two people and injuries to twelve others.
Rep. Larry Kraft (DFL - St. Louis Park), the author of the bill, issued the following statement:
“Since the tragedy which impacted our community last year, it has been a top priority of mine to try and stop people who have a recurring problem with drinking and driving from killing or injuring Minnesotans. This bipartisan legislation is focused on improving public safety and is a critical step toward prevention and safer roads for everyone. I’m thankful to Governor Walz for signing this vital legislation. Thank you to the advocates and especially the people and families impacted who have supported this legislation.
I also want to thank Sen. Ron Latz, my Senate partner in this legislation, Rep. Jeff Witte my House Republican partner, and especially the Park Tavern and Methodist Hospital communities who shared their stories with me, and worked side by side with us as we brought this legislation to passage.”
The legislation strengthens state law in response to last year’s crash. The driver of last year’s crash had received five previous DWI convictions and was found to be four times over the legal limit following the crash. This legislation significantly increases the amount of time people with multiple offenses are required to be on ignition interlock, extends the lookback period for offenses, and removes obstacles for offenders to get on interlock to prevent future incidents like this from happening again.
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