City expands No Refusal for holidays

With drunk driving a leading cause of death and major injuries on Austin’s highways and streets, the city will be ramping up its No Refusal program for the holidays. With No Refusal, police officers may obtain immediate blood search warrants “in cases where a driver under arrest for driving while impaired refuses to provide a voluntary sample of breath or blood,” according to a press release from the city. Enforcement will be increased from Thanksgiving to early January, in an effort “to encourage residents and visitors to plan a safe ride home this holiday season before the celebrations begin.” Robert Spillar, director of Austin Transportation, said, “Our goal with No Refusal is to deter impaired driving so everyone can make it home safely after their holiday parties with friends and family. This is about encouraging everyone to get home safely by planning ahead.” To plan your ride home from the office party or any other special occasion where alcohol is a factor, visit AustinTexas.gov/GetHomeSafe. “Please don’t put yourself and others in danger,” said Austin Police Chief Brian Manley. “Before heading out, plan ahead to make it home safe.”