Montana Senate considers zero tolerance THC bill for drivers under 21

Montana lawmakers are considering a significant legislative measure aimed at addressing the rising concerns surrounding THC use among young drivers. During a recent Senate Highways and Transportation meeting, Senate Bill 508 was introduced, proposing a strict zero-tolerance policy for THC in the blood of individuals under 21 years of age.

The bill's sponsor highlighted the alarming statistics regarding THC-related incidents on Montana roads. Between 2020 and 2023, THC involvement in DUI cases increased by over 6%, while fatal crashes involving THC surged by more than 51%. These figures underscore the urgency of the issue, prompting law enforcement officials to advocate for the bill as a proactive step to prevent impaired driving among minors.

Colonel Kurt Sager of the Montana Highway Patrol expressed strong support for the legislation, emphasizing the need to instill a culture of zero tolerance for driving under the influence of THC among young drivers. He noted that minors are already prohibited from possessing THC unless they have a medical card, making the bill a necessary measure to prevent the normalization of impaired driving.

However, the bill faced opposition from Don Cape, representing the Coalition for Safety and Justice. Cape raised concerns about the implications of a zero-tolerance policy, particularly for individuals with medical marijuana cards. He argued that the bill could lead to unjust penalties for those who may have used marijuana days or weeks prior to driving, despite not being impaired at the time.

The committee heard from various stakeholders, with proponents advocating for the bill as a means to enhance road safety and deter young drivers from developing harmful habits. In contrast, opponents cautioned against the potential for unfair legal consequences and the complexities of measuring impairment related to THC.

As discussions continue, the fate of Senate Bill 508 remains uncertain, with lawmakers weighing the need for stricter regulations against the potential for unintended consequences. The outcome of this legislation could have lasting implications for road safety and the legal landscape surrounding marijuana use in Montana.