Connecticut lawmakers consider lowering BAC limit from 0.08 to 0.05 to save lives

The Connecticut General Assembly's Transportation Committee convened on February 26, 2025, to discuss significant legislation aimed at reducing the state's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for driving from 0.08 to 0.05. This proposal aligns with recommendations from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which has advocated for lower BAC limits since 2013, citing evidence that such measures can reduce alcohol-related fatalities.

During the meeting, representatives highlighted alarming statistics regarding alcohol-impaired driving fatalities. In 2022, the United States recorded 13,524 deaths due to alcohol impairment, the highest since 2008, with Connecticut alone accounting for 127 of those fatalities. This represented 35% of all traffic deaths in the state, marking an 8.5% increase from the previous year and a 30% rise since 2019.

Supporters of the legislation pointed to Utah, the first state to implement a 0.05 BAC limit in 2018, which reportedly experienced a decrease in fatal crashes. The NTSB emphasized that lowering the BAC limit could potentially reduce fatal alcohol-related crashes by an estimated 11%. More than 100 countries have adopted similar standards, demonstrating a global trend towards stricter regulations to enhance road safety.

The committee also addressed concerns from the hospitality industry regarding potential negative impacts on business. However, data from Utah indicated that alcohol sales increased by 28% since the law's implementation, suggesting that lower BAC limits do not necessarily harm the economy.

Law enforcement representatives expressed support for the legislation, noting that it would not strain police resources. Instead, they argued that the 0.05 limit would serve as a deterrent, encouraging individuals to plan for safe transportation options before consuming alcohol.

The discussion also touched on the complexities of impaired driving, acknowledging that while the 0.05 limit is a critical tool, it is not a comprehensive solution. The NTSB highlighted the need for additional measures, including public awareness campaigns and technological advancements in vehicles to detect impairment.

As the meeting concluded, the committee recognized the importance of addressing impaired driving through a multifaceted approach, combining legislative changes with public education and enforcement strategies. The proposed legislation is set to be further evaluated, with the potential for Connecticut to become the second state to adopt a 0.05 BAC limit, following Utah's lead.