State lawmakers are considering a bill to give judges an additional tool for repeat DUI offenders.
House Bill 111 could increase the sentence for a felony DUI conviction. A felony DUI is a 4th or subsequent conviction.
Currently these offenders serve a 13 month sentence that may not include treatment.
House Bill 111 would amend that and give a judge the ability to extend the commitment to the Department of Corrections up to 2 years.
Representative Keith Regier is the bill’s sponsor. He says the additional time could allow the court to send offenders to the Warm Springs Addiction Treatment and Change program.
"Keep in mind, 4th DUI before it’s a felony. It’s not a punishment. You’re sick. You need help."
Representatives with the County Attorney’s Association, Montana Department of Justice, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving spoke in favor of the bill.
No one spoke against.
The House Judiciary Committee did not take immediate action on House Bill 111.