MADD Names Rep. Smith as National Legislative Champion

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) has named State Rep. Richard A. Smith (R-108) a 2013 National “Legislative Champion” – a recognition awarded for his efforts on DUI child endangerment and ignition interlock legislation.

This year Rep. Smith was a proponent of House Bill 6701, which sought to establish enhanced penalties for those who operate a motor vehicle under the influence of liquor or drugs with a child present.

“MADD graciously thanks State Rep. Smith and the other lawmakers who authored legislation improving their state’s drunk driving laws,” said MADD National President Jan Withers. “MADD is thankful for their work on legislation requiring ignition interlocks for all convicted drunk drivers or legalizing the option of sobriety checkpoints—countermeasures proven to save lives and prevent injuries.”

“I want to thank MADD for this recognition and for their continued efforts to prevent drunk driving and enhance the safety of our roads,” State Rep. Richard A. Smith said. “Drunk driving accidents pose a serious, yet completely preventable, threat to our community and I am proud to stand in support of policies that will help make our streets safer.”

In total, MADD acknowledged 89 state lawmakers across 37 states for their role in helping to eliminate drunk driving.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is the nation’s largest nonprofit working to protect families from drunk driving and underage drinking. For more detailed information on 2013 MADD Legislative Champions, please visit MADD’s blog at: www.madd.org/blog