San Diego California DUI attorneys

DUI prosecuters want to get California drunk drivers for murder, was inspired by death of Orange councilman.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and lawmakers from across the state gathered in Santa Ana Wednesday to commemorate new DUI legislation inspired by the death of Orange city councilman Steven Ambriz.

“This bill was named after Steve Ambriz,” Schwarzenegger said at somber press conference attended by Ambriz’s widow, Bridget, and their 4-year-old daughter, Kaitlyn. “He was an extraordinary public servant and a friend to the people of Orange County.”

Ambriz, 35, was killed in a traffic accident last year by a woman who plead guilty to driving under the influence of methamphetamines. She was sentenced to 10 years in prison for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and for possession of marijuana. It was the maximum sentence under law.

The Steve Ambriz Act attempts to increase the penalty by requiring all Californians applying for or renewing a driver’s license to sign a statement acknowledging the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Such statements will make it easier for prosecutors to pursue second-degree murder charges against those who kill while driving under the influence or DUI / drunk driving.