Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has proposed significant amendments to the Road Traffic Act to enhance road safety by reducing permissible alcohol levels for drivers and introducing stricter penalties for first-time offenders.
The proposed legislation aims to lower the current breath alcohol limit from 35 micrograms (mcg) per 100 millilitres of breath to 15 mcg, and the blood alcohol limit from 80 milligrams (mg) per 100 millilitres of blood to 30 mg. This adjustment aligns Singapore's regulations with those of countries like Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea.
Under the new proposals, first-time offenders with very high blood alcohol levels may face imprisonment, reflecting the serious risks posed to other road users. Currently, first-time offenders without aggravating factors typically receive a fine and a two-year driving ban. The MHA is collaborating with the Sentencing Advisory Panel to develop guidelines for recommending jail time in such cases.
The legislation also introduces a new offence for drug driving, allowing prosecution if controlled drugs or intoxicating substances are found in a driver's blood, regardless of impairment levels. Additionally, the Bill proposes revisions to blood sample collection procedures to address recent legal challenges.
These proposed changes underscore Singapore's commitment to enhancing road safety and deterring drink-driving through stricter regulations and penalties.