Lack of Support for Lowering Legal Limit for DUI to .05

Since the NTSB recommended reducing the legal limit to 0.05 in May, debate has continued but progress has been minimal. While some research has suggested that lowering the legal limit could save 500 to 1,000 lives a year, critics have argued numerous flaws in the recommended reduction. Debate continues to surround the question of when alcohol impairment becomes criminally negligent. How does a .05 BAC differ from impairment caused by drowsiness, cellphone use or medication? When are we punishing responsible behavior? Research results span the spectrum of answers. In addition, a number of expected proponents of the change including Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and the Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White have not provided support for the initiative. The Secretary of State and MADD have only pushed for legislation increasing use of breath alcohol ignition interlock (BAIID) devices. Reportedly, no Illinois legislators have drafted bills to change the current DUI law and lower the legal level at this juncture.

Push to lower legal limit of intoxication to 0.05 stirs debate, www.chicagotribune.com, September 1, 2013