AUGUSTA — Maine Senate President Michael Thibodeau, R-Waldo, has introduced a bill to the Maine Legislature that would make those convicted of drunk driving responsible for emergency response costs associated with accidents they cause. LD 944, “An Act Regarding Recovery of Emergency Response Costs Related to an OUI Offense,” had a public hearing before the Maine Legislature’s Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee April 13.

The legislation would hold accountable a person who criminally operates a motor vehicle while intoxicated. If the individual causes an accident, under the bill, they would be liable up to $2,500 of the emergency response costs incurred.

“I understand that accidents happen and that is why we have first responders,” Senate President Thibodeau said. “But drunk driving accidents are entirely avoidable, and that’s why I believe those responsible for causing them should pay for the damage they cause,” he said, in a news release. “The costs associated with cleaning up motor vehicle accidents take a huge toll on municipal budgets, especially those of our small communities.”

California, Illinois, Michigan, Texas and Virginia have adopted legislation similar to the bill, according to the release