Critics say a ``zero-tolerance'' policy for young drivers with alcohol in their systems does not go far enough in deterring teenage drink-driving.
A ``zero-tolerance'' policy under the Land Transport (Road Safety and Other Matters) Amendment Bill would penalise teenage drivers with any alcohol in their systems by fining them $200 and 50 demerit points.
The present youth limit is 150 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath, or 30 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood (referred to as 0.03). Anyone under 20 who drives with higher alcohol levels will face the same penalties as other over-the-limit drink-drivers.
Transport Minister Steven Joyce has defended the bill as a way to set out a punishment of a ticket and demerits for youth with ``low'' alcohol levels, The New Zealand Herald reported.
``Fifty demerit points is halfway to a mandatory disqualification with 100 demerit points,'' Mr Joyce said. ``It's significant.''
Critics said the fine and demerit points punishment was not severe enough.
Submissions on the bill can be made before October 21.
Bill on youth drink driving too soft - critics
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