The Pennsylvania General Assembly has passed a new DUI law that aims to strengthen accountability for impaired driving and fixes a recent court ruling that limited how prior DUI cases were counted.
According to the Bradford County District Attorney’s Office, the new statute corrects the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s decision, which prevented courts from counting prior participation in Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition as a previous DUI.
As a result, repeat offenders could avoid higher penalties, even after already receiving a break through ARD.
“This fix is about public safety and fairness,” said District Attorney Richard Wilson. “ARD is meant to be a one-time opportunity. If someone drives impaired again after getting that chance, the law should recognize the prior offense.”
Under the new law, ARD will once again count as a prior DUI if a person reoffends. This change closes a gap in the law and restores the intent of the DUI statute: first-time offenders may receive a second chance, but repeat offenses will be treated more seriously.
The District Attorney’s Office also announced that it will continue to offer ARD to appropriate first-time DUI offenders.
“We are thankful to the legislature for acting quickly to fix this problem,” Wilson said. “This law gives prosecutors clear guidance, supports victims, and helps keep our roads safer.”
The District Attorney’s Office encourages drivers to make safe choices and reminds the public that impaired driving puts lives at risk.
