P.A. Sask Party MLA reflects on 2018
The work to keep drunk drivers off the road was one of this year’s big highlights for the Saskatchewan legislature for Prince Albert – Carlton member.
Joe Hargrave said the overall number of deaths caused by drunk drivers was down, which he attributed to the help of many groups.
“A 40 per cent decline and I think that’s good work from the police, good work from SGI in their awareness campaign, and good work on behalf of the people of Saskatchewan who are taking notice of it,” he said.
As of September, there is now zero tolerance for drug impairment for all drivers and includes a penalty of immediate license suspension (up to five years if convicted) and the vehicle can be seized for up to 60 days. There are also longer vehicle seizures for impaired drivers with passengers under the age of 16. Experienced drivers who are impaired and transporting passengers under 16 will face longer roadside license suspensions. Hargrave said he was a bit concerned what impact the legalization of recreational marijuana would have.