By AP
LANSING, MI –
A new Michigan law is coming that increases the penalties against drunken drivers.
The law that takes effect Sunday creates a new "high blood-alcohol content" category for drivers. The law roughly doubles many penalties for motorists with a blood-alcohol content of .17 - more than twice the legal limit.
Such drivers could face up to 180 days in jail - increased from 93 - and a one-year license suspension - up from six months.
A suspended motorist can drive with restrictions after 45 days, but he must have a device installed in his vehicle that prevents it from starting if it measures a blood-alcohol level of at least .025.
The law coincides with drunken driving enforcement on and around Halloween.