I’d like to respond to your Jan. 31 editorial “In Our View: Impaired-driving bills warrant sober study,” about legislation lowering the legally allowed blood alcohol level in Washington from 0.08 to 0.05 (Senate Bill 5002). I am not convinced by concerns predicting a significant negative impact on businesses. I’m for the health and profitability of businesses — especially given the lingering economic effects of COVID-19. But from what you state in your editorial, I don’t see the statistics backing up those concerns.
The editorial did offer impressive statistics regarding the positive impact of lowering the BAC on the number of driver-impaired accidents and deaths. Given a cost-benefit analysis, which is the greater harm: a potential slight decrease in alcohol sales at bars, pubs, restaurants (which already charge premium prices for mixed drinks) or a human injury or loss of life?
That’s a no-brainer.
