Sen. Weaver Secures Senate Approval for Bill Expanding Definition of Aggravated DUI

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate has passed a comprehensive measure by Senator Darrell Weaver, R-Moore, aimed at strengthening penalties for impaired drivers and enhancing efforts to prevent repeat DUI offenses.

Senate Bill 54 expands the definition of aggravated DUI to include individuals convicted of driving under the influence while also committing offenses such as causing a motor vehicle incident, eluding police, speeding more than 10 mph over the speed limit in a school zone, or while a minor is in the vehicle, among other offenses outlined in the bill.

These provisions expand on existing laws, which currently define aggravated DUI as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher.

“By expanding the definition of aggravated DUI, we are sending a clear message that impaired driving, especially when coupled with reckless behavior, will not be tolerated,” Weaver said. “I am proud to have worked alongside the families affected by these incidents to ensure that this legislation will help to prevent further tragedies and loss, while ensuring those who threaten public safety and put lives at risk by driving under the influence are held accountable.”

Weaver added that the measure was a result of collaboration with Oklahoma-based nonprofit, Victims of Impaired Drivers (VOID). VOID is composed of families who have lost a loved one due to the preventable crime of driving under the influence.

Senate Bill 54 passed with overwhelming support in the Senate and now moves to the Oklahoma House of Representatives for further consideration.

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For more information, contact:

Sen. Darrell Weaver at 405-521-5569 or email Darrell.Weaver@oksenate.gov.