I understand that there may be areas in which our drunk driving laws can be updated and improved. The Metropolitan Police Department is ready and willing to work with the Council on making any improvements that may be needed. But I do think this process should be deliberate and comprehensive. We should take the time to bring in the experts, examine all available research and best practices, and conduct a thorough study of current laws, policies and operations. Only then will we be able to develop legislation that meets our common goals of safe streets, safe neighborhoods, and clear directions to our police officers and the motoring public.

 

We have made tremendous progress in the area of traffic safety in the District of Columbia.  Traffic fatalities in our city hit a 20-year low last year, and they are down again this year. Aggressive speeding and red-light running are on the decline as well. We need to ensure that any changes we make in our drunk driving laws continue to support the positive gains we have made.

 

I thank you for your time, and I look forward to working with the Council on finding ways to make DC an even safer place to drive, to walk and to live.