Richardson's DWI agenda takes a hit

SANTA FE (KRQE) – Gov. Bill Richardson's DWI agenda was hit with a big setback by the Senate Judiciary Committee.

The committee killed a bill that called for three days of mandatory jail time for first time drunken drivers.

Another measure was referred to the Senate Finance Committee.
That measure would eliminate a loophole that lets people plead DWI down to careless or reckless driving after refusing a breath alcohol test.

Meanwhile, house committees took action on a bill which would keep the fund solvent that buys ignition interlocks for people who can't afford them.

Also, a measure that lets the traffic safety bureau determine who gets financial help will now move to the house floor.

Tax and revenue tabled a bill that would have established a two-dollar fee on traffic citations to pay for interlocks.