Manitoba government tables bill with new consequences for impaired driving

WINNIPEG - Impaired drivers in Manitoba could soon face new penalties.

The NDP government has tabled a bill that would require all impaired drivers, after their first offence, to use an ignition interlock system.

The system requires drivers to provide a breath sample before their vehicle can be started.

Under the existing law, some first-time offenders do not need to use the system.

The bill would also toughen the penalties for people who are required to use an interlock system but don't use one.

The bill would raise the maximum penalty from a $2,000 fine to a $5,000 fine and one year in jail.

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  The Manitoba government has tabled a bill that would require all impaired drivers, after their first offence, to use an ignition interlock system. (file image)