Minnesota House passes DWI reform bill following Park Tavern tragedy

The Minnesota House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed bipartisan legislation to strengthen the state's DWI laws in response to a deadly crash in St. Louis Park that killed two people and injured nine others. The bill significantly increases the required use of ignition interlock devices for repeat offenders, extending the lookback period for prior DWI offenses from 10 to 20 years and mandating up to 10 years of interlock use for those with three or more offenses. It also lengthens license revocation periods and requires offenders to participate in treatment and rehabilitation programs. Lawmakers from both parties highlighted the bill's focus on public safety and accountability for repeat offenders, aiming to prevent future tragedies. The bill is expected to advance in the Minnesota Senate, where it also enjoys broad bipartisan support. This legislative action was widely seen as a critical step toward safer roads and better protection for Minnesota communities.