The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“THE INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION THAT WILL AMEND THE TRANSPORTATION EQUITY ACT” mentioning the U.S. Dept. of Transportation was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E1885 on Oct. 12, 2001.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
THE INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION THAT WILL AMEND THE TRANSPORTATION
EQUITY ACT
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HON. ROBERT L. EHRLICH, JR.
of maryland
in the house of representatives
Friday, October 12, 2001
Mr. EHRLICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to announce the introduction of legislation that will amend the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (``TEA-21'') (Pub. L. 105-178) to provide states with flexibility in complying with the minimum penalties for repeat offenders for driving while intoxicated or driving while under the influence (23 U.S.C. Sec. 164). The bill I am sponsoring is based upon recommendations made by the National Association of Governors' Highway and Safety Representatives in their report entitled ``Taking the Temperature of TEA-21: An Evaluation and Prescription for Safety.''
Under current federal law, the definition of a ``repeat intoxicated driver law'' includes a 1-year ``hard'' suspension of the repeat offender's driver's license; impoundment or installation of an ignition interlock system of the individual's motor vehicles; an assessment of the individuals alcohol abuse and treatment; and community service and imprisonment (23 U.S.C. Sec. 164(a)(5)). If a state does not enact a repeat intoxicated driver law compliant with Sec. 164(a)(5), the Department of Transportation transfers 1.5 percent of funds under Sec. 104(b) to Sec. 402.
In my view, there are two reasons why Congress should improve the current law. First, a 1-year ``hard'' suspension, in many cases, does not sufficiently deter repeat drunk drivers from driving under the influence. While a 1-year suspension looks good on paper, statistics, sting operations, and just plain commonsense reflect the notion that suspended drivers continue to drive illegally on our roads. For example, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 70 percent of individuals with revoked licenses continue to drive. Second, transferring funds from one transportation account to another may motivate some states to adopt new laws; however, the overall experience since TEA-21 enactment is that many states simply find ways to shift funds within their own accounts.
Accordingly, I am introducing legislation that will require states to continue to enact a 1-year ``hard'' suspension; however, the suspension may be modified if states mandate the use of an ignition interlock system. My own state of Maryland has proven this policy to be an effective tool in the fight against drunk driving. Further, this legislation reflects my philosophy of providing states with flexibility over laws of public safety.
I encourage all members to join with me in supporting this legislation.
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