Wis. Lawmakers Consider Tougher Penalties For Repeat Drunk Drivers

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The state Assembly is set to take up a bill that would impose tougher penalties on repeat drunken drivers.

The measure would make fourth offense a felony punishable by up to three years in prison regardless of when the charge is filed. Right now, a fourth offense is a felony only if it's committed within five years of a third offense.

Maximum prison sentences for fifth and sixth offenses would increase to five years. Maximum sentences for seventh, eighth and ninth offenses would increase to seven years and six months. The maximum sentence for a 10th or subsequent offense would increase to a decade.

The Assembly was set to consider the bill during a floor session scheduled to begin Tuesday afternoon. Approval would send the measure to Gov. Scott Walker.