Driving under the influence (DUI) laws are becoming stricter across the United States in 2025. States are introducing new penalties, lowering blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits, and expanding the use of technology to prevent impaired driving. These changes aim to reduce accidents and save lives.
Lower BAC Limits
Utah Leads the Way
Utah has already lowered its legal BAC limit from 0.08% to 0.05%. This change has shown positive results, with a decrease in alcohol-related crashes. Other states are considering similar measures.
Washington and Hawaii Follow Suit
Washington and Hawaii are working on legislation to lower the BAC limit to 0.05%. If passed, these laws could make it easier to charge drivers with DUI, even if they feel fine after a small amount of alcohol.
Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Offenders
Ohio’s “Liv’s Law”
Ohio has enacted “Liv’s Law,” which increases penalties for repeat DUI offenders. A second offense within ten years can lead to fines up to $4,000, imprisonment for up to two years, and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for three years. Subsequent offenses carry even harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.
Montana’s “Bobby’s Law”
Montana introduced “Bobby’s Law,” named after a young man killed by a drunk driver. The law creates a new offense: aggravated vehicular homicide while under the influence. Offenders with a BAC of 0.16% or higher involved in a fatal DUI crash now face 3 to 30 years in prison and fines ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.
Expanded Use of Ignition Interlock Devices
California’s Mandatory IID Installation
California now requires all DUI offenders, including first-time violators, to install an IID in their vehicles. This device prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath. Offenders must bear the full cost of installation and monitoring.
Nevada’s IID Expansion
Nevada has expanded the use of IIDs to include all DUI offenders. The state also mandates that offenders bear the full cost of installation and monitoring.
Stricter License Revocation Rules
New Mexico’s License Revocation Law
New Mexico has enacted stricter DUI license revocation rules. Drivers aged 21 and older with a BAC of 0.08% or higher now face a six-month license revocation. For those under 21, the threshold is set at 0.02%, resulting in a one-year revocation period. Repeat offenders face a minimum one-year revocation, regardless of age.
Maryland’s Enhanced Penalties
Maryland has increased penalties for DUI convictions. The Motor Vehicle Administration will assess 12 points against anyone’s license for DUI convictions involving alcohol or other drugs. This change aims to deter impaired driving and enhance road safety.
Proactive Measures Against Impaired Driving
Washington’s Impaired Driving Protection Order
Washington has proposed a new legal tool: the Impaired Driving Protection Order (IDPO). This order allows family members, intimate partners, or law enforcement to petition the court to prevent an individual from driving under the influence. The goal is to stop impaired driving before it happens.
Florida’s Breathalyzer Refusal Penalty
Florida lawmakers are pushing for stricter DUI punishments. Senate Bill 138 proposes that opting out of a breathalyzer test would automatically result in a misdemeanor charge. This change aims to address the alarming statistic that over 1,000 people die each year in the state due to impaired driving.
Conclusion
The trend toward stricter DUI laws in 2025 reflects a nationwide effort to reduce impaired driving and enhance public safety. Lower BAC limits, enhanced penalties for repeat offenders, expanded use of ignition interlock devices, stricter license revocation rules, and proactive measures like the Impaired Driving Protection Order are all part of this movement. Drivers must stay informed about these changes and make responsible choices to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.
