Penalty for DWI offenses involving children strengthened

The NYS Senate passed legislation sponsored by Senator Jim Alesi which would strengthen existing DWI law by adding an additional crime to the charges intoxicated drivers would face if they are transporting minors at the time of the offense.

The bill (S.950) would make persons guilty of endangering the welfare of a child if they commit an alcohol-related offense with a child under the age of seventeen in the vehicle at the time of arrest. The crime, which is a Class A misdemeanor, carries a penalty of up to one-year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.