South Dakota has the most lenient laws for driving under the influence in the country, according to a study.
With no minimum sentences for first and second offenses, and much of the punishment up to the discretion of the judge, WalletHub.com ranked South Dakota 51st in the country.
Attorney General Marty Jackley says in an average year, about half a dozen people are killed by impaired drivers in South Dakota. Jackley wants vehicular homicides by impaired drivers to be classified as a violent offense.
Laws may be lax on DUI, but South Dakota is known for innovative rules to prevent repeat offenses. The 24/7 Sobriety Program, introduced in 2005, has received national attention for its success.
The sobriety of Repeat offenders is constantly monitored through scheduled breath tests or an electronic bracelet.
A 2016 Rand Corporation study found the program reduced repeat drunk driving arrests by 12 percent and domestic violence by nine. It also reduced the number of car crashes.
Jackley says more needs to be done.
Jackley says he will continue to push for stricter DUI laws in the next legislative session.
