Crime Package

Government has perhaps no more important responsibility than protecting the public from those who would do them harm. Whether it is keeping uninsured drivers off the roadways, discouraging drunken driving, or preventing convicts from profiting off the crimes they commit, the Alabama House Republican Caucus has endorsed a package of legislation that will help accomplish this primary, and pivotal, government role:

• Creating the Offense of Aggravated DUI for Those Testing More Than . 15 BAC by Rep. Spencer Collier (R – Irvington) – In order to keep our streets safe from those who drink and drive, this legislation would create the offense of Aggravated DUI for those with a blood alcohol content above .15 and doubles the punishments for those convicted under the statute. Collier, a former state trooper, said the bill does not change the .08 legal limit, nor does it change the penalties for those testing below a .15 BAC.

• Prohibiting Convicted Felons from Benefiting Financially from the Crimes They Commit by Rep. Cam Ward (R – Alabaster) – Because the continued protection of crime victims is a primary responsibility of the state, this bill prohibits convicted felons from benefiting financially or marketing items relating to the crimes they committed.

Strengthening Enforcement of the Mandatory Automobile Liability Insurance Law by Rep. Mike Hubbard (R – Auburn) – This legislation strengthens enforcement of the state's mandatory liability insurance law, originally passed by Hubbard during his first year in office, by requiring electronic verification of insurance at the time of registration, increasing penalties for repeat offenders and allowing for the impoundment of vehicles not properly covered by insurance.