Oklahoma City police remind public of new, upcoming law increasing DUI penalties
By Jonathan Greco
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OKLAHOMA CITY (KOCO) — The Oklahoma City Police Department is reminding the public about a new law that expands when a DUI can be charged as a felony.
Starting Nov. 1, an Oklahoma law will raise the penalties for impaired drivers and modify the range and sentencing process for DUI offenses. Under the new law, Senate Bill 54, a DUI may be elevated to a felony-level offense if it involves the following:
A crash Driving with a minor in the vehicle Excessive speeding or reckless driving Eluding law enforcement Having a high blood alcohol concentration (0.15 percent or higher) Police said first-time offenders also could face serious jail time and fines.
“Remember: The safest choice is don’t drink and drive. Your choices behind the wheel affect not only your life but the lives of everyone on the road,” Oklahoma City Police Department officials posted on Facebook.
Senate Bill 54 received overwhelming support from the House, Senate, and advocates during the legislative session, but Gov. Kevin Stitt vetoed it. In May, the governor said he vetoed the bill due to concerns that penalties could lead to unjust outcomes and unnecessary incarcerations.
Oklahoma lawmakers overrode Stitt’s veto, allowing it to become law.
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