Oklahoma now has a new drinking and driving law. This law introduces some of the toughest drinking and driving penalties in the country. This new legislation has been inspired by the help of a family that has been pushing for justice following a grieving moment. Besides getting charged with misdemeanors and felonies, those who break it are at risk of facing a jail term.
The Tragedy that Sparked Change
The new drinking and driving legislation has been inspired by the Murrow family, whose daughter Marissa was killed by a drunk driver in 2020 while leaving a wedding. Marissa was only 19 years old. Since then, her parents, Jeff and Kristy, have been championing for stricter and harder punishments for those caught driving under the influence (DUI).
Their advocacy efforts have also led to the formulation of stricter rules for bartenders at events. More sweeping changes to how Oklahoma punishes DUI cases are still expected as a result of their efforts.
About the New Drinking and Driving Law
Starting November 1, the following changes will take effect:
- A DUI becomes a felony if the driver is found speeding, causes a crash, or is found transporting a minor.
- Felony DUI charges will be punishable by jail sentences, in addition to fines.
- Repeat offenders will face harsher punishments than before.
Lawmakers in Oklahoma hope that changing these DUIs to felonies will enhance safety on the roads by discouraging risky driving. They also hope that it will ensure that those who break the law face severe punishment for endangering others.
Broader DUI Changes in Oklahoma.
The new drinking and driving law is not the only change to DUI law in Oklahoma. Here are other adjustments that have been made in the past year:
- Lower BAC limits for drivers under 21– The legal threshold for young drivers under 21 is 0.02% while that of adults is 0.08%. Young drivers could trigger a charge for taking just one drink.
- Expanded drug-related DUIs– Besides alcohol, prescription drugs, marijuana, and other illegal substances could trigger the same penalties as alcohol-related offenses.
- Tougher penalties overall– Besides fines, offenders could face mandatory license suspensions, jail terms, and alcohol or drug treatment programs.
- More DUI checkpoints– Police will have the authority to set up sobriety stops, especially in high-risk areas and more so during holiday weekends.
A Law Focused on Safety and Saving Lives
Those supporting the new drinking and driving law argue that it is aimed at saving more lives, not punishing drivers. Representative Brian Hill said earlier this year that the law aims at protecting children and families and ensuring that tragedies like Merissa’s never happen again.
The Murrow family reiterated this message, urging drivers to think before getting behind the wheel. They also warned that driving under the influence could destroy families in seconds.
What Drivers Need to Know
From November 1, you should know the following when driving in Oklahoma:
- A DUI is now a felony and can trigger more than a ticket. In fact, you could be put in jail if found driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
- If you cause a crash, are caught speeding or carrying a minor, while under the influence, expect to be charged with a felony.
A Nationwide Crackdown on Risky Driving
Oklahoma’s new drinking & driving law comes at a time when other states are also introducing driving laws. Some of the driving laws that have also been introduced include hands-free requirements, harsher speeding penalties, and the introduction of limits on drivers in the left lane. All these laws are aimed at enhancing safety on the roads and discouraging risky driving habits.
Conclusion
Starting November 1, 2025, Oklahoma drivers who are found guilty of DUI will be charged with a felony and could face jail time. It is important to avoid drinking & driving or even using drugs that impair judgment behind the wheel to enhance safety on the roads.