TOPEKA, Kansas (AP) – People who drive drunk will face stiffer penalties and will be required to use interlock devices on their vehicles under a bill approved by the Kansas Legislature.
The bill passed both chambers with unanimous votes Thursday and awaits Gov. Sam Brownback’s signature.
The bill also will create a central repository to help law enforcement keep better records of repeat DUI offenders.
Some representatives raised concerns that the bill removes a requirement that drivers permanently lose their licenses for five or more DUI convictions. But supporters say people drive drunk with or without a license.
The central repository will address concerns that prosecutors often don’t know if a driver has multiple DUI convictions. That has led to some offenders not being charged with the right offenses or getting light sentences.