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Oregon legislature to debate reduced drunk driving penalty

Allegations of drunk driving can be devastating for some Portland residents. They can face difficult and harsh penalties that affect them not only emotionally but financially. In Oregon, in order for first time drunk driving offenders to regain driving privileges, they have to install an ignition interlock device into their car. This device will prevent the car from starting if alcohol is detected on a person's breath. The device is mandatory and costs between $500 and $1,000 to install. Maintenance and monitoring on the device can cost additional money.

One Oregon lawmaker has proposed changes to this law which could decrease the cost to those accused of drunk driving. Under this proposal, first time offenders who agree to go to counseling following the criminal charges could avoid this device is their blood alcohol content level was under .15 percent at the time of their arrest.

The lawmaker argues that more than 70 percent of people who attend these counseling programs never reoffend and therefore they are effective at preventing repeat instances of drunk driving. Furthermore, the lawmaker -- Senator Floyd Prozanski -- argues that this law would give judges discretion to make the decision about who should have to use these devices. Finally, the senator says this could save some first-time offenders money following their arrest.

Some groups -- including Mothers Against Drunk Driving -- have opposed the legislation saying that more drunk driving accidents will occur without the use of the ignition interlock devices. However, lawmakers will debate the legislation in late February.

Even without this legislation, there are ways for those facing criminal charges -- including drunk driving charges -- to fight against severe penalties. With the right criminal defense strategy, people can reduce the charges against them. In some cases, the charges may be dropped altogether.

Source: KATU, "Lawmaker gets pushback over DUII proposal," Stephen Mayer, Feb. 20, 2014

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