(JUNEAU) - The Alaska House of Representatives passed HB 381, legislation regarding vehicular child endangerment. HB 381, sponsored by Representative Lesil McGuire (R-Anchorage), passed the House by a unanimous vote.

The legislation would make it a class A misdemeanor crime of child endangerment to transport a child in a motor vehicle while intoxicated.

Representative McGuire was pleased that the bill received such strong support in the House. "Twenty-seven other states have passed similar laws and it is time for Alaska to follow suit. Alaska has some of the highest substance abuse rates in the country. This measure will highlight the importance of our children's safety and our responsibility to be safe and sober drivers."

HB 381 now awaits action in the Alaska State Senate.

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