MT HJ65

Requests the Legislative Council to designate an interim committee to study Montana's DUI laws, with findings to be reported to the 70th Legislature

Montana ranks as the worst state for drunk driving nationally, with approximately 7,300 DUI arrests annually between 2011-2021 and 1,227 impaired-driving deaths between 2011-2020

Study would evaluate effectiveness of current DUI penalties, compare Montana's laws to other states, and examine incarceration rates and treatment alternatives for offenders

Study would analyze contributing factors including limited transportation alternatives, bar locations relative to population centers, and Montana's historically permissive culture toward drinking and driving

All study aspects must be concluded by September 15, 2026