DUI Plates in CO?

House Backs 'DUI' Plates

By Michelle Dally Johnston

Denver Post Capitol Bureau

April 4 - People convicted of multiple drunken-driving offenses could be forced to drive with license plates spelling out their transgressions under a bill given preliminary approval by the state House of Representatives on Friday.

The bill by Rep. Bob Hagedorn, D-Aurora, increases penalties for drivers convicted of repeated alcohol-related driving violations.

Hagedorn's measure would require those who have had multiple drunken-driving convictions, or who have had their license revoked more than once, to turn in their license plates or have them replaced with a special set of plates that identifies the car as having been driven by a drunken driver.

Hagedorn said a key aspect of the bill, HB 1334, is requiring a $10,000 bond for those defined as repeat offenders.

Too often, he said, drunken-driving offenders continue to drive on revoked or suspended licenses, thus suffering few consequences of their actions.

Hagedorn's measure is fueled in part by his own experiences. He had a well-publicized drinking problem and started a new life of sobriety 18 months ago.

"For an alcoholic or addict to really come to grips (with their disease), they have to hit bottom,'' he said.

The experience of "spending a night in jail'' could do much good in convincing alcoholics that they need help, Hagedorn added.

The 45-year-old political science instructor said the key to his legislation was letting the people around the individual with the problem know that there is trouble that needs to be addressed.

"There would be notice to the owner of the vehicle that they could become liable. . . . They can get someone to help and work with the (alcohol-troubled) person.''

Hagedorn also said the special license plate would be a red flag to other drivers and law enforcement that the driver of the vehicle may be driving under the influence or on a revoked license.

Rep. Frana Mace, D-Denver, took exception to what she saw as the stigmatizing tag.

"It's pretty hard punishment to make a spouse drive around with a "I'm a drunk' license plate,'' Mace said. "Co-owners of cars are not responsible.''

But Mace was outvoted as the House passed the bill on a resounding voice vote.

The issue will be revisited by the House next week.

Tags: Colorado DUI |  DUI Prevention