Melanie’s Law is a Massachusetts state law that was enacted in 2005 to strengthen penalties and sanctions for operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs (OUI). The law was named after 13-year-old Melanie Powell, who was tragically killed by a repeat drunk driver while walking to her friend’s house in October 2003. Under Melanie’s Law, repeat OUI offenders face stricter penalties, including increased fines, longer license suspensions, and mandatory ignition interlock device installation. In addition, the law includes provisions for lifetime driver’s license revocation for those convicted of drunk driving, increased penalties for causing serious bodily injury while under the influence, and harsher penalties for those who refuse to take a breath, blood, or chemical test when suspected of OUI. The law also increases penalties for driving under the influence of drugs, including mandatory minimum jail sentences for habitual violators and an automatic driver’s license suspension for those under the influence of both drugs and alcohol. Furthermore, Melanie’s Law also requires those with a DUI conviction to attend a driver alcohol education program and pay for it themselves. In summary, Melanie’s Law is a comprehensive piece of legislation that aims to reduce the number of drunk driving incidents in Massachusetts by imposing harsher penalties and promoting safer driving habits among repeat OUI offenders.
