New Punishments for DUI Offenders?

Lawmakers are considering changes to Montana's DUI laws, including doubling fines and giving offenders driving permits.

The Senate Judiciary Committee heard House Bill 488 on Wednesday. The bill would double minimum fines for driving under the influence and clarify that the same penalties apply to people driving high on marijuana.

Rep. Keith Regier's bill would require anyone who refuses to submit to a breath, blood or urine test to pay a $300 fine. That money would pay for the state to process blood-draw search warrants and to test blood.

A separate proposal, Senate Bill 93, was heard in the House Appropriations Committee Wednesday. Hamilton Republican Sen. Pat Connell's measure would create limited driving permits for people whose licenses have been revoked, including those convicted of driving under the influence.