N.S. targets drunk drivers with kids in car

Nova Scotia plans to toughen penalties for people who drive drunk with children on board.

Impaired drivers caught with anyone under 16 in their car would lose their licence for an extra 12 months.

For offenders with a minimum sentence, that means no licence for two years.

The amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act were introduced in the legislature on Friday.

"Driving drunk with children as passengers is a serious offence. And that's saying it mildly. That deserves serious consequences," said Transportation Minister Bill Estabrooks.

First-time offenders would also have to participate in the province's engine interlock program for at least one year.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving applauds the plan, saying it's an important step to keep children safe from impaired drivers.

Manitoba has a similar law.

Last fall, Nova Scotia brought in tougher penalties for people caught driving after they drink, even if they're not legally drunk under the Criminal Code.

Drivers who have a blood-alcohol level between 0.05 and 0.08 — under the legal limit — lose their licence for seven days.

The suspension increases to 15 days for a second offence and 30 days for a third.