Bill > SB5664

This bill aims to reduce impaired driving in Washington state by lowering the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit from 0.08 to 0.05 for drivers. The legislation is motivated by national and international data showing that lowering the BAC limit can significantly reduce fatal crashes. Key provisions include modifying existing laws to change the BAC threshold for driving under the influence across multiple sections of Washington state law, including vehicle operation, commercial driving, military personnel, and vessel operation. The bill requires the Washington Traffic Safety Commission to develop a comprehensive public information campaign about the new BAC limit, including advertisements in multiple languages and considering impacts on different communities. Additionally, the Washington State Institute for Public Policy is mandated to conduct a two-year evaluation of the law's impacts, studying effects on traffic crashes, DUI arrests, community equity, and potential business impacts on the hospitality industry. The new BAC limit will take effect on July 1, 2026, and the bill emphasizes that the change does not alter existing civil liability standards for alcohol vendors. The legislature's rationale is based on 2023 being the deadliest year for road fatalities since 1990, with half of fatal crashes involving impaired drivers.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5664&Year=2025&Initiative=false