PA updates laws on DUI offenses

Heather Comstock, BUPD Sergeant

The state of Pennsylvania is cracking down on drivers who take the chance of driving while intoxicated; the state law now allows police to charge impaired DUI (driving under the influence) drivers who are three-time offenders to be charged with a felony, which can keep those charged from obtaining certain jobs and limit the potential for future earnings.

Until now, Pennsylvania was one of four states to treat repeat DUI’s as a misdemeanor regardless of their number of DUI convictions.
The new law also increases penalties for “homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence” and increased penalties for various offenses associated with driving illegally while under a DUI-related license suspension.

Have a plan in place ahead of time if you decide to drink: be responsible for your own actions, secure a designated driver or call for a ride home. For additional safety information or assistance, contact Sgt. Heather Comstock at (570) 389-4171.