MILWAUKEE (AP) — Democratic Gov. Tony Evers has signed a potentially pricey bill that would impose tougher sanctions on repeat drunken drivers.
The Republican-authored bill increases the mandatory minimum sentence for fifth and sixth offenses from six months to 18 months. Judges could hand down shorter sentences if they decide such a move would be in the public interest.
The state Department of Corrections has projected the measure will create $13.6 million in additional operating costs annually.
Still, the bill has drawn support from Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the Wisconsin Chiefs of Police Association. The Wisconsin Tavern League has registered as neutral on the proposal.
The Senate passed the bill in November. The Assembly approved it 88-10 earlier this month.
