Overview

The Drugs (Roadside Testing) Bill aims to introduce roadside drug testing in England and Wales. It amends existing road traffic legislation to allow for preliminary drug testing and increases driving bans for drug-related offences.

Description

This bill modifies two existing Acts:

• Road Traffic Act 1988: It mandates the Secretary of State to approve a device for administering preliminary roadside drug tests within 12 months of the Act's passing.
• Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988: It toughens penalties for drug-driving. A first drug-driving conviction within three years of a previous drug-driving offence will result in a minimum 12-month driving ban; subsequent offences will lead to a minimum two-year ban.

The bill will come into effect three months after it becomes law and does not apply to Northern Ireland.

Government Spending

The bill's financial implications are not explicitly stated in the provided text. The cost will likely depend on the implementation of roadside drug testing, including the procurement and deployment of testing devices and associated training for law enforcement.

Groups Affected

• Drivers: Increased penalties for drug-driving will directly affect drivers who use illegal drugs and then drive.
• Law enforcement: Police will be responsible for administering roadside drug tests and enforcing the stricter penalties.
• Secretary of State: Responsible for approving testing devices within the stipulated timeframe.

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