DUID Victim Voices has lobbied extensively for better DUID data so state legislators can make laws based on intelligence, rather than myth. See January 16, 2014 Blog for one letter that was part of this lobbying campaign. This letter was spread widely throughout the law enforcement community. Governor Hickenlooper responded with a polite thank you note.
February 2014, DUID Victim Voices sponsored a special program at Colorado’s Interagency Task Force on Drunk Driving. The program featured oral fluid testing technology that can be used at the roadside. The keynote speaker was Dr. Barry Logan, president of the Society of Forensic Toxicologists. Speakers from the three leading manufacturers of oral fluid testing devices demonstrated the use of their products. These devices have the potential to augment or even replace reliance on blood testing for drugs.
This week, the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) sent a letter to Governor Hickenlooper requesting funding for both of these ideas, plus additional funding to better train officers to identify stoned drivers.
Colorado’s Department of Public Safety responded quickly to CACP’s letter, expressing an interest in supporting such funding.
Obviously, it’s much too early to celebrate a small win, but we take great delight in positive news such as this, especially when we played a small part in making it happen.