Proposed Law Would Prevent Alcohol For Drivers With Children In Car

State Sen. Andrew Brock, R-Davie, introduced

Senate Bill 104

that would make it illegal for an adult to have any alcohol in their system while driving a child under the age of 17, which means a parent who has one glass of wine or beer with dinner could be charged with DWI if their child is in the car.

"I think it's a good idea to limit the amount of drinks that they have, but to say they can't have any at all, I think, would be a bad idea," parent Nikki Wynn said.

The Stovalls have four young children and they think the new bill would be a good idea.

"I don't think that the driver of a vehicle with children in the car can ever be too careful," parent Jason Stovall said.

"What one glass of wine may do to one person may do something else to somebody, so I just think it's a good idea if you have kids in the car not to be drinking," parent Kirsten Stovall said.

Shane Hunsucker does not have children, but often dines out with his 16-year-old brother.

"I just don't see it. As a customer, for me, it would really hurt. I'd be afraid to have a glass of wine or anything," he said.

Some people believe a stricter DWI law would drain business.

"I think that would be a problem. I think more people would be apt to stay home to have a drink or eat at home," restaurant manager Charles Brown said.

The "Zero Alcohol When Transporting a Child" bill is still in its early stages. Brock said some of the ideas come from a similar proposed DWI change in Utah.