Governor Walker Signs Bill Increasing Penalty for Repeat Drunk Drivers

Governor Scott Walker signed a bill into law making the 4th drunk driving offense a felony regardless of when it was committed and increasing penalties for repeat drunk drivers. The Bill was authored by Senator Alberta Darling (R – River Hills) and Representative Jim Ott (R – Mequon).

“This law is being signed to honor the lives of Jennifer, Courtney, and Sophia,” Governor Walker said. “Eight years ago today, the lives of their families changed forever when a repeat drunk driver decided to get behind the wheel.”

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More than 200 people are killed each year on Wisconsin’s roads and, prior to 1990’s, operating while intoxicated convictions were based on the number of times the offender had been convicted in the five year period preceding arrest. The new law eliminates the 4th offense look back period and increases penalties for repeat drunk driving offenders.

“Penalties in Wisconsin for repeat drunk drivers are less severe than neighboring states,” added Governor Walker. “It is time to match the severity of our penalties to this crime, regardless of when it occurs.”