New Minnesota DWI Law, Inspired By Deadly Crash, Now In Effect
By MinneapoliMedia Staff
A sweeping overhaul of Minnesota’s impaired-driving laws is now in force, closing dangerous loopholes and aiming to prevent repeat drunk-driving tragedies. The reforms—passed with strong bipartisan support—were spurred by a devastating incident in St. Louis Park last year that claimed two lives and injured a dozen more.
Tragedy Sparks Reform
On September 1, 2024, a man with five prior DWI convictions drove into a crowded patio at the Park Tavern restaurant, killing Kristina Folkerts and Gabe Harvey and leaving survivors with life-altering injuries. The driver, whose blood alcohol content was more than four times the legal limit, did not have a court-ordered ignition interlock device installed—a gap that victims’ families and advocates say should never have existed.
Among the injured was Tegan D’Albani, who became a vocal advocate for stronger laws to ensure repeat offenders cannot get behind the wheel without safeguards in place.
“This law is about saving lives,” said one supporter. “It’s about making sure what happened to Kristina, Gabe, and so many others never happens again.”
Key Changes Now in Place
The legislation, known as HF 2130 and championed by Rep. Larry Kraft (DFL–St. Louis Park), expands both the scope and severity of Minnesota’s DWI penalties.
Extended Look-Back Period – Past DWI convictions now count for 20 years instead of 10 when determining repeat offenses.
Expanded Ignition Interlock Requirements –
2nd offense (within 20 years): 2 years with an ignition interlock device (IID)
3rd offense: 6 years
4th or more offenses: 10 years These devices require drivers to pass a breath-alcohol test before starting their vehicles—and now, in many cases, before unlocking them.
Stronger Penalties for Tampering – Attempting to bypass or disable an IID now carries steeper fines and potential license revocation.
Updated Revocation and Reinstatement Rules – License revocation periods have been lengthened, with treatment or rehabilitation now mandatory before reinstatement in certain cases.
Bipartisan Effort With a Public Safety Focus
Lawmakers from both parties backed the bill, citing data showing that ignition interlock programs significantly reduce drunk-driving recidivism. National research from the CDC supports that interlocks are among the most effective tools to prevent impaired driving, especially for repeat offenders.
“This law is about accountability,” said Rep. Kraft. “It’s about using proven tools to keep dangerous drivers off the road and keep our communities safe.”
Part of a Larger National Trend
Minnesota’s changes align with a broader national movement toward tougher impaired-driving measures. States like Texas, California, and Florida have also expanded ignition interlock programs and strengthened repeat-offense penalties. Advocates say Minnesota’s approach—linking longer look-back periods with mandatory, technology-based prevention—is among the most comprehensive in the nation.
A Law Born of Loss
For the families and survivors of the Park Tavern crash, the law’s implementation brings some measure of justice, though not closure.
“This doesn’t bring our loved ones back,” one family member said, “but if it stops even one more drunk driver from killing someone, then it’s worth it.”
The new law applies to all DWI arrests and convictions from August 1, 2025, onward.
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