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I read the article, "Herbert signs nation's first 0.05 percent DUI bill; Utahns split on issue" (March 24, The Tribune). I would first preface my comments by saying that I definitely do not condone anyone driving a motor vehicle or using dangerous equipment while impaired.
By the same token, I was disappointed that Gov. Gary Herbert signed into law a 0.05 percent threshold for the DUI illegality in Utah.
First, it is far too low a percentage. Some reports say a 120-pound woman who has hasn't eaten food could cross that illegality hurdle by having just one beer. For some slender men, they would cross that low-limit after two beers.
How could restaurants serving wine or bars/taverns stay open?
Police could simply sit in their cars outside the establishments and write literally hundreds of tickets. It would adversely affect those with CCW licenses who would get just a whisker over that limit (even if not carrying) and get their permit yanked. I simply feel that the DUI = DWI limits should be uniform in all states. It makes no sense for a driver driving on I-80 whose blood content is legal in Wyoming, but illegal in Utah. Keep public safety laws uniform.
James A. Marples
Provo