Bill > HJ65

This joint resolution requests the Legislative Council to designate an interim committee to conduct a comprehensive study of driving under the influence (DUI) in Montana, prompted by the state's high DUI rates and significant traffic fatalities. The study aims to review Montana's current DUI statutory framework, evaluate the effectiveness of existing penalties, compare state laws with other jurisdictions, and examine incarceration rates and treatment options for DUI offenders. The resolution highlights Montana's problematic DUI statistics, including being ranked the worst state for drunk driving, with approximately 7,300 annual DUI arrests and 1,227 fatalities between 2011 and 2020. The interim committee will specifically investigate potential cultural factors contributing to DUI prevalence, explore alternative approaches to addressing the issue, and analyze potential legislative interventions. The study must be completed before September 15, 2026, with final results and recommendations to be reported to the 70th Legislature, potentially informing future policy decisions to reduce impaired driving and improve road safety.

Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1065