Byron Camilleri Open To Amendments On Drink And Drug Driving Bill
Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri has said he is open to amendments to the proposed drink-and-drug driving law, so long as the core purpose, which is combating abuse, remains intact.
His comments came in response to Labour back bencher Edward Zammit Lewis, who suggested the law should also address reckless driving and allow the judiciary greater flexibility in sentencing, according to Times of Malta.
Camilleri stressed that while changes are welcome, the final legislation must uphold proportionality. His aim is not to incarcerate but to establish a serious deterrent for dangerous conduct behind the wheel. “We want people to think twice before doing something that can put the lives of others in danger,” he said.
Under the current draft, motorists would face random roadside testing for alcohol and drugs. Those causing fatalities while over the legal alcohol limit or driving under the influence would face a mandatory three-year prison sentence.
Support for the measure comes from groups like Doctors for Road Safety and the Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis, though they suggest the bill focus on impairment rather than mere presence of substances.
They also urge that prescription medications be considered when assessing driver impairment.
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