(JUNEAU) - Judges may impose a lifetime ban on alcohol use as part of a sentence for violent felons under a measure introduced today by Sen. Gene Therriault (R-North Pole).

"For some people alcohol triggers a violent nature that otherwise does not exist. When extreme crimes against persons occur as a result, extreme mitigation measures may be needed to prevent repeat offenses. This bill gives courts that option," Sen. Therriault said.

The legislation as introduced provides the lifetime ban as an option, and available only for sentencing felons who commit crimes against people. If an offender violates the lifetime ban, he or she is subject to a class A misdemeanor for the first offense and a class C felony for a repeat offense. Under either provision, re-incarceration is an option if a judge determines it is needed.

"Public safety is at the heart of this legislation, but it also gives offenders an extra incentive to never again use a substance that turns them into a ticking time bomb that they cannot control," Sen. Therriault said.

SB 284 has been referred to the Senate Judiciary and Finance committees.

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