Stalled Felony DUI Bill Faces Key Colorado Test

DENVER (AP) — A measure to add penalties for habitual drunken drivers faces a key test Tuesday in the state Senate.

The felony DUI bill has already passed the House and was mentioned by the governor in January as a priority for the year.

Colorado is among five states where drunken drivers face only misdemeanor charges, even after repeated convictions.

The bill would make a fourth DUI a felony punishable by up to six years in prison and a fine of as much as $500,000.

A third DUI in seven years could also be a felony if it includes aggravating factors, such as having children in the car or causing major injuries.

The Senate Judiciary Committee is scheduled to vote on the measure Tuesday.