The Government has announced details of a planned new law to give Police the power to conduct random roadside drug
testing of drivers, Associate Transport Minister Julie Anne Genter and Minister of Police Stuart Nash announced today.
The Land Transport (Drug Driving) Amendment Bill was introduced to the house today and is intended to have its first
reading in the House next week.
“This Government is committed to reducing drug-related harm in our communities. This new law will allow Police to test
if drivers are under the influence of drugs anywhere, anytime, just as they do now for alcohol,” said Stuart Nash.
“Last year, 103 people died in crashes where the driver was later found to have drugs in their system. We need to do
more to stop impaired drivers getting behind the wheel,” said Julie Anne Genter.
“Enforcement on our roads is a key part of this, but every one of must challenge dangerous driving behaviours in
friends, workmates or family,” said Stuart Nash.
“The Bill allows Police to use oral fluid tests to check drivers for drugs which are likely to include THC (cannabis),
methamphetamine, opiates, cocaine, MDMA (ecstasy), and benzodiazepines. These are currently the most prevalent and high
risk drugs and medications used by drivers in New Zealand.
“Under this law, drivers who test positive for the presence of drugs will be fined, immediately suspended from driving
for 12 hours, and lose half their demerit points.
“Drivers would also face harsher criminal penalties where blood tests confirm impairing levels of drugs in their system,
or drugs combined with alcohol,” said Stuart Nash.
“We all want driving on our roads to be as safe as possible. Driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol makes drivers
more likely to speed, lose control of the vehicle, or crash,” says Julie Anne Genter.
“It’s important we get this right. I expect the Bill to head to select committee after the election where experts and
the general public can weigh in on the details of the proposed law.
“Road safety is a priority for this Government. No loss of life on our roads is acceptable and we’re committed to taking
action to stop unnecessary trauma,” said Julie Anne Genter.
Specific criminal limits for drugs will be added to the Bill by Supplementary Order Paper and provided to the select
committee for scrutiny, allowing the independent expert panel sufficient time to provide advice on the setting of these
limits.