PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, SECURITY AND EMPLOYMENT Legal amendments leading to random roadside drug testing approved unanimously by Parliament

•⁠ Effective imprisonment for those found guilty of killing a person, even involuntarily, because they were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

The legal amendments that will allow the Police, for the first time, to carry out random roadside drug testing without reasonable suspicion or a Court order have been unanimously approved by Parliament at Third Reading stage. The aim is to further strengthen safety and order on the roads and to protect law-abiding and responsible citizens as much as possible. This will operate in a similar way to alcohol testing.

This follows work carried out in recent months by the Ministry for Home Affairs, Security and Employment together with the Malta Police Force, who also procured the necessary testing equipment. The process included drafting the legal amendments that have now been approved at Third Reading stage in Parliament.

The amendments will also mean:

•⁠ ⁠An effective prison sentence for anyone found guilty of killing a person because they were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or both, even if involuntarily. The possibility of a suspended sentence has been removed.

•⁠ ⁠Stronger penalties for driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.

•⁠ ⁠Stronger laws for those who drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both and cause an accident resulting in grievous bodily harm or serious injuries.

•⁠ ⁠The Prosecution may request the suspension of a driving licence while proceedings are pending.

•⁠ ⁠An aggravating circumstance in the Criminal Code in cases of hit and run, excessive speeding, or when a vehicle is driven without a driving licence or insurance policy, increasing the penalty by two to three degrees.

•⁠ ⁠A new offence has been introduced for anyone who produces or distributes material showing individuals breaking traffic laws. This applies to content that normalises dangerous driving or encourages others to do the same. Anyone found guilty may face a fine of €1,200 or up to one year in prison. However, the fine may be reduced to €250 if information is provided identifying the persons involved.

Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri reiterated that this is how we ensure greater order in our country. He explained that these amendments follow the introduction, for the first time, of a Road Policing Unit within the Police Force. He described the amendments as a stronger enforcement tool that should also serve as a deterrent, making drivers more aware of the choices they make and their actions.

"Today's message is clear. Do not play with other people's lives, because you will pay the price. If you drank, don't drive. If you consumed drugs, which is already wrong, at the very least recognise that you must not also endanger someone else's life. That is why we are promoting responsible driving, so that you arrive safely and do not put anyone at risk. This is another reform in the interest of society." Minister Byron Camilleri thanked the Members of Parliament who contributed during the Parliamentary process.