For the fifth year in a row, efforts to lower Hawaii's blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for driving under the influence (DUI) from 0.08% to 0.05% have failed in the state legislature. This recurring issue has significant implications for businesses across the state, particularly those in the tourism, hospitality, and food and beverage industries.
The debate over the BAC limit sparks discussion over public safety and the potential impact on local businesses. Proponents of the lower BAC level, such as the Hawaii Alcohol Policy Alliance, argue that it could significantly reduce alcohol-related car crashes. KITV reported that the Hawaii Alcohol Policy Alliance highlights that approximately 30% of Hawaii car crashes involve alcohol.
Opponents, including some restaurant and bar owners, express concerns that such a change could negatively affect their businesses causing a rise in liability. They are concerned that the lower limit could lead to more arrests and a perception of stricter laws, potentially deterring patrons. Civil Beat featured Bill Comerford, chairman of the Hawaii Bar Owners Association, who stated that the current BAC limit of 0.08 was a "fair balance" that ensured public safety without harming the restaurant and bar industry.
Despite the bills' failure, there's a call for a working group to further examine the issue. This suggests a continued focus on the impact of the legal alcohol limit on the community. The discussion also touches on the effectiveness of public education campaigns and the importance of addressing underlying issues like speeding and distracted driving. While the legislation has stalled, the underlying issues remain, indicating the need for a balanced approach considering public safety and economic impacts in the state of Hawaii.
Meanwhile, the Star Advertiser reported on a study which showed that there were increased alcohol-related traffic deaths in Utah after implementing a .05 BAC standard, despite a decrease in Hawaii's alcohol-impaired driving fatalities.
