Bill 122 2008

An Act to proclaim Students Against Impaired and Distracted Driving Day

Preamble

Each year, hundreds of people in Ontario die from impaired driving related accidents on our roads and highways. Driving under the influence of alcohol, whether alone or in combination with one or more drugs, poses a major health and safety problem to the people of Ontario. It is by far the largest single criminal cause of death and injury in Ontario. Consequences for drivers charged or convicted can result in a variety of penalties, including loss of driver's licence, demerit points, fines or time in jail.

Moreover, impairment through alcohol or drugs is only one of a number of forms of distracted driving leading to dangerous or careless driving. Distracted driving occurs whenever a driver's ability to process the information needed to drive safely is reduced. It is important to recognize that even such routine activities as adjusting the radio, talking with passengers and eating when behind the wheel can constitute distractions. Seen in this light, it is clear why the use of today's portable devices while driving has become a major public concern.

Proclaiming the third Tuesday in October in each year as Students Against Impaired and Distracted Driving Day supports the work of organizations such as The Student Life Education Company, BACCHUS Canada, Student Life NOW and the Canadian Centre for Social Norms Research that raise awareness of the dangers and consequences of impaired and distracted driving among young people 25 years old and under through peer-to-peer education programs and awareness initiatives that promote behavioral changes.

Therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows:

Students Against Impaired and Distracted Driving Day

   1.  The third Tuesday in October in each year is proclaimed as Students Against Impaired and Distracted Driving Day.

Commencement

   2.  This Act comes into force on the day it receives Royal Assent.

Short title

   3.  The short title of this Act is the Students Against Impaired and Distracted Driving Day Act, 2008.

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The Bill proclaims the third Tuesday in October in each year as Students Against Impaired and Distracted Driving Day.