Alaska has a problem with alcohol. Though we have some of the most punitive drunken driving laws in the nation, Alaskans continue to die in tragic accidents fueled by alcohol. In order to prevent these accidents from occurring, we need a new approach that keeps alcohol out of the hands of repeat offenders.

Repeat drunk drivers are often ordered not to consume alcohol as part of a sentence or a as a condition of probation or parole. Currently there is no method by which a vendor of alcoholic beverages may determine whether an individual is under such restriction. House Bill 14 will require that the driver's license or state ID card of an individual court ordered not to drink be marked so that restaurants, bars and liquor stores are aware the individual is prohibited from consuming alcohol.

The bill does not require vendors to check the identification of every individual attempting to purchase alcohol; however, if a vendor catches a person with a marked license attempting to purchase alcohol, the vendor may pursue a $1000 civil penalty. The civil penalty provides a hefty financial incentive for vendors to check for marked licenses and ensure customers are legally permitted to purchase alcohol.

This new approach will stop repeat offenders who are court ordered not to drink from purchasing alcohol and will save lives. In passing House Bill 14, we will keep Alaskan families safe by preventing tragic accidents from happening. I respectfully ask for your support.