Bill would lower BAC threshold for motorboat operators

By Sioux City Journal

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In our view, driving a boat while consuming alcohol is just as dangerous as operating a motor vehicle while under the influence. In terms of what constitutes intoxication, the two offenses should be treated the same under the laws of our state.

That's why we support a bill passed on a 40-9 vote in the Iowa Senate on Wednesday.

The bill would lower the blood alcohol-content threshold for intoxication for anyone operating a motorboat or sailboat in Iowa from its current 0.10 percent to 0.08 percent - the same standard for anyone driving a motor vehicle.

In short, if you have consumed too much booze to be behind the wheel of a car, you're too drunk to be behind the wheel of a boat.

“I think this is in the best public interest,” said Rep. Jeff Kaufmann, R-Wilton. “I think this law would not only make enforcement better, I think it would make the waterways safer.” .

The legislation next moves to the House. We urge House members to join their Senate colleagues, pass the bill and send it on to Gov. Terry Branstad for his signature.