“For me, this law is about turning a personal tragedy into an opportunity to protect other people. Last summer, my nephew was killed by a boater under the influence of drugs and alcohol. I’m doing everything I can to keep other families from experiencing our loss.”
-State Senator Julie Morrison

CHICAGO – Thanks to a new law sponsored by State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield), families enjoying Illinois’ many lakes and rivers will have a little bit less to worry about next summer. The law targets reckless boaters who operate their craft under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“For me, this law is about turning a personal tragedy into an opportunity to protect other people,” Morrison said. “Last summer, my nephew was killed by a boater under the influence of drugs and alcohol. I’m doing everything I can to keep other families from experiencing our loss.”

Specifically, the law requires boaters who are involved in crashes resulting in serious injuries or death to submit to breathalyzer or chemical tests, much like suspected drunken drivers. If they refuse, the secretary of state will have the authority to suspend their driver’s licenses.

“People need to know that drinking and boating is every bit as serious as drinking and driving,” Morrison explained. “I hope that requiring blood alcohol tests in the case of serious boating accidents will make some people think twice before they crack open a beer while they are operating a boat.”

Though Morrison is proud of the new law, she has not given up on improving boating safety – the Senate president recently appointed her chair of a special Committee on Watercraft Safety, which will begin meeting later this summer.

The new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2014, giving the Department of Natural Resources and other law enforcement agencies time to inform the people of Illinois about the new law before next year’s boating season begins.

Read more: Boat operators will be subject to same drug and alcohol testing as drivers in Illinois (Fox 2, St. Louis)