Posted on March 19, 2024
HARTFORD – On Monday, March 18th, Deputy House Republican Leader Tom O’Dea led debate in the Transportation Committee on a series of roadway safety initiatives, including a proposal (S.B. 424) which would lower the legal BAC limit for drivers from 0.08 to 0.05.
The concept of reducing driver impairment on Connecticut roads is a noble pursuit, and one he is willing to support, but Rep. O’Dea contends that it misses the mark on what has contributed to a record span of roadway fatalities since 2022.
“When Connecticut passed a law in 2021 telling drivers that they can hold a bong in one hand and the steering wheel in the other, while telling our law enforcement that they cannot pull that person over, we fully lost sight on the debate surrounding impaired driving,” said Rep. O’Dea. “If we are serious about improving roadway safety and saving lives, then our first step must be to repeal this outrageous law.”
O’Dea proceeded to propose an amendment which upheld the underlying bill but empowers law enforcement officers to pull over a car whose driver or passengers are seen smoking marijuana.
The amendment failed, mostly along party lines.
Following the failed vote, O’Dea said, “It is hypocritical at best, and difficult for me to understand how the Transportation Committee can turn a blind eye to a major – and growing – cause for impaired driving, which data shows only accelerates with the compounding of multiple substances.”
“It is my hope that my colleagues will be amenable to this necessary step to make our roads safer and ultimately save lives,” Rep. O’Dea said.
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