In wake of deadly Park Tavern crash, lawmakers propose tougher DWI laws
Two state lawmakers are proposing a bipartisan bill that would crack down on repeat drunk drivers — a response to last summer's horrific Park Tavern Restaurant crash in St. Louis Park.
The August 31 incident, in which 56-year-old Steven Bailey — who already had a criminal record for drunk driving, with five previous DWIs — crashed into the restaurant's patio, killing two people and injuring nine others.
Those killed were Park Tavern server Kristina Folkerts, 30, of St. Louis Park, and Methodist Hospital employee Gabe Harvey, 30, of Rosemount.
Bailey was found to be four times over the legal limit at the time of the crash.
On Friday, Representative Larry Kraft and Senator Ron Latz, two DFLers whose respective districts include St. Louis Park, announced the new legislation in a press conference at Park Tavern.
The bill, which will soon be introduced in the legislature, would do the following if approved, according to a news release:
Significantly increase the amount of time drivers with multiple offenses are required to be on ignition interlock — a breathalyzer device connected to a car's ignition
Remove obstacles for offenders to use ignition interlock systems, encouraging more to sign up for the program
Double the lookback period for DWI, meaning DWI convictions would stay on an offender's record for 20 years instead of the current 10 in Minnesota; this, in turn, would allow prosecutors to argue for enhanced penalties against repeat drunk drivers
'Since this tragedy, it has been a top priority of mine to try and stop people who have a recurring problem with drinking and driving from killing or injuring Minnesotans," said Rep. Kraft in a statement. "This bipartisan legislation is focused on improving public safety and is a critical step toward prevention and safer roads for everyone.'
'A tragedy like the one we saw last September should never happen again in any community in Minnesota. This bill takes meaningful action that will help keep recurring offenders from getting behind the wheel when they're inebriated,' said Senator Latz. 'This proposal will have an immediate, positive impact on our state, and I believe it will help save lives.'
The release notes that the legislation is being proposed "together with workers, advocates, and family members of victims."
The lawmakers say the bill is expected to receive hearings "in the coming week," in committees of both the state House and Senate.
You can watch the full press conference below:
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