DRIVERS who break the rules of the road will be threatened with harsher punishments and even jail time under a new law.
Starting November 1, drivers will have to watch their drinking carefully, or they could be thrown behind bars.
Drivers convicted of drinking and driving could face harsher punishments under a new law[/caption]
The legislation makes a DUI a felony, which could lead to jail time[/caption]
The crackdown is coming to Oklahoma and was co-created by the Murrow family after their daughter Marissa died in 2020.
The 19-year-old was hit and killed by a driver who drove under the influence after drinking alcohol at a wedding.
Under the new legislation, drivers convicted of a DUI will be hit with felony charges if they’re caught speeding, causing a crash, or transporting a minor, CBS affiliate KWTV reported.
If they’re found guilty of the charges, they could face jail time.
Plus, repeat offenders will face even harsher consequences under the new law.
Jeff and Kristy Murrow have successfully advocated for several new laws since their daughter was abruptly killed.
In March, the Oklahoma House of Representatives approved new rules that require bartenders serving alcohol at events like weddings to have a special license.
At the time, Representative Brian Hill said that the rules aren’t about policy, but about “protecting children and families and ensuring that tragedies like Marissa’s never happen again.”
“By requiring proper training and accountability for those serving alcohol at these event venues, we are taking meaningful steps to prevent senseless loss.
“Marissa’s memory is the driving force behind this measure, and with the support of the Murrow family, I am hopeful that this law will save lives and make our communities safer for everyone.”
On July 4, the grieving parents urged Oklahomans to not get behind the wheel if they were drinking over the holidays.
“When you make the wrong choice, it could cost you everything,” Jeff told NBC affiliate KFOR.
“It could cost you your life, or it could cost you the life of someone that you love very dearly in your family, if you’re lucky.
“The best case scenario is it might cost you a job, or it might cost you your car or your reputation.”
