News

The DEA National Forensic Laboratory Information System (NFLIS) systematically collects results from drug chemistry analyses conducted by state and local forensic laboratories across the country. As a national drug forensic laboratory reporting system, NFLIS provides timely and detailed analytical results of drugs seized by law enforcement.  It is a unique source of information for monitoring and understanding drug abuse and trafficking in the United States, including the diversion of legally manufactured drugs into illegal markets. Findings from NFLIS can also supplement existing drug data sources, including information from drug demand surveys and drug testing programs.  The full report is here.

A Word from MADD's National President

  Not sure how to do it?  Get a copy of the MADD handbook here. 

This issue includes legal analysis on the recent Kentucky vs. King decision.  The opinion is important not just because it decides another exigent circumstance case, but because it includes valuble insight into the leanings of our current Supreme Court Justices on 4th Amendment search and seizure cases.  The article and the full FBI bulletin is here.

The Washington Traffic Safety Commission is serious about helping judges in DUI cases.  In 2012 they committed $50,000 to begin a comprehensive summary of DUI law for judges in the form of a Benchbook.   The WTSC has now released a Request For Proposal (RFP) to find a coordinator to head up that effort.   A copy of the RFP is attached here.   Proposals are due April 30 to WTSC. 

This bill covers a lot of DUI terrritory:  from Superior Court jurisdiction in DUI cases (now 5 years) to expanding DUI courts (now allowed in Municipal Courts) to expanded Ignition Interlock coverage and users fees, to revising the definition of "drug" to include inhalants and new novel chemicals of abuse.  The bill was a high priority for the Impaired driving section---but credit for its passage goes to a great group of committed folks.  Many thanks to everyone for their dedication and heroic efforts to keep this bill from dying when it really looked dark!!

The full text of the bill is here.

Below is the message from the prime Sponsor, Rep. Roger Goodman:

Great news!  This evening, with fewer than six hours remaining in the 2012 session, the State Senate finally took up our DUI bill and approved it by a vote of 49-0; and a few moments ago we just voted 98-0 here in the House to approve the final bill and send it to the Governor!  Below you will find a staff summary of the Senate amendments to the bill.

Thanks VERY much to each of you, from the Washington State Patrol to MADD to our colleagues in the justice system, for your strong advocacy that helped loosen up the bill in the last minute to get it passed before we adjourn.  Thanks also for your substantive input that helped us fashion such a strong piece of legislation.  Once enacted into law, HB 2443 will further save lives and reduce injuries on our roadways.  We should feel very gratified with our success.

Once again, thank you all!

Roger Goodman

State Representative, 45th District

Washington State Legislature

office:  360-786-7878

email:   goodman.roger@leg.wa.gov

In HB 2216, the legislature unanimously increased penalties for felony DUI defendants who kill.  The bill now goes to the governor for signature.  The bill increases penalties from the prior standard range of 31-41 months for a Level 9, to that equivalent to the Level 11 Manslaughter range, 78-101 months.   This means a minimum jail sentence of 6.5 years for DUI defendants who kill. 

Special thanks to Amy Freedheim, King County Prosecutor's Office, for her support and advocacy!   A shout out also to MADD and the many victims of DUI who provided countless hours in support of this important law.  

The bill, as passed, is here.

The Drug Enforcement Agency's "Microgram" regarding unusual drug evidence and cases is attached here. 

Effective March 1, 2012, the Canadian Border Service permits border agents the discretion to admit Americans with only 1 DUI and less than six months jail ordered, into Canada. 

The new "Tourism Facilitation Action Plan" does not change Canadian law, only how border agents are expected to enforce it.  The new policy applies to all limited criminal background (not just DUI), requires some additional paperwork processing for U.S. citizens, but will not require a fee.  Canadian tourism and businesses in general cheer the more liberal interpretation--having been hit hard by the strict post-9/11 laws.      To see Operational Bulletin 389, go here.  To see an article on the new policy go here.