Pubdate: Sun, 30 Sep 2007
Source: Sunday Star-Times (New Zealand)
Copyright: 2007 Sunday Star-Times
Contact:  http://www.sundaystartimes.co.nz
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1064
Author: Ruth Laugesen
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/testing.htm (Drug Testing)

POLICE TO GET POWER TO STOP AND TEST DRUG DRIVERS

The Governement is to introduce new laws within a fortnight that will 
give police new powers to administer a blood test on drivers thought 
to be driving under the influence of drugs.

The move comes after National rode to the rescue of Labour on the 
proposed new laws, which had been stymied by disagreement by New 
Zealand First and the Greens over the legislation.

"National would support any sensible measures that would stop people 
driving while impaired by anything," said National transport 
spokesman Maurice Williamson.

He said he was happy to have the measure cover not just illegal 
drugs, but also legal prescription drugs.

"Some people get all sorts of medication prescribed to them, and 
often the doctors tell them this will impair your ability to drive a 
car," Williamson said.

"I would hope we have a way of stopping anyone abusing that as well. 
The road toll is still ghastly."

He said he had been "staggered" Transport Minister Annette King had 
not asked him if National would back the legislation, which would 
give Labour the numbers it needed in the House.

Told of National's support for the measures, a spokesman for King 
said she was "very pleased commonsense had prevailed". As a result 
legislation would be introduced in the "next week or two".

Police already have the power to charge those considered to be 
incapable of driving through suspected drug use, but it is legally 
difficult to prove, and rarely used.

The Land Transport Amendment Bill would lower the legal threshold of 
being impaired by illegal drugs and give police the power to do 
roadside co-ordination tests if a driver seemed impaired but passed a 
breath test. A motorist believed to be on drugs would have to undergo 
a blood test.

If illegal drugs were found in the blood drivers would face the same 
penalties as if caught drink-driving: up to three months in prison, 
or a fine of up to $4500, and at least six months' disqualification.
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