HB776

Imagine thinking getting on the highway going in the wrong direction when DRUNK “isn’t that bad” if there’s no property damage. Why does NH coddle alcoholics like it does? Please pass this bill. Maybe it will keep some drunks off the road if they’re worried a “mistake” like going the wrong way on I-95 will affect their lives like it would the people they would hurt if not stopped by the police.

As a resident of Nashua who travels between exits 4 and 8 on an almost daily basis, the occurrences of wrong-way drivers on the Everett Turnpike is especially staggering. While some of these are confused or exhausted drivers, many are intoxicated, and any further discouragement from this behavior will be welcome.

I strongly support this Bill. In Texas, this crime (I call it a crime) occurs far far too often, including again last week. In Texas, if someone is killed, these drivers are charged with intoxicated manslaughter; and juries typically sentence individuals to 20 years. Although last fall, the sentence for 1 individual was 75 years. More sharing than necessary, thanks. Good luck.

I served on the Citizens Advisory Board to the NH Correctional Facility for Women for 10 years. One of our biggest concerns was the staff shortage of correctional officers, necessitating mandatory overtime and additional expense. We know the problem exists with local police and state police too. This study commission is needed and should include looking at all levels of law enforcement, including the correctional officers at the prisons and Houses of Correction.