Concerns Rise as Drunk Driving Law Enforcement Faces Delays

The implementation of a law to penalize drunk drivers has been stalled, causing widespread concern. This comes in the wake of recent incidents involving drivers under the influence of alcohol causing fatal accidents. Representative Guillermo Brahms González has expressed frustration over the delay, highlighting the disparity in the speed of law enforcement.

For instance, the Vest Law was published just a day after its approval. However, the amendment to the Penal Code that proposes stricter penalties for drunk drivers has been in limbo for over a year. Despite the expiration of the legal terms to veto it, the Secretary of Government continues to withhold it.

Last year, the XVII Legislature unanimously approved a reform of Article 186 of the Penal Code of Quintana Roo. This reform mandates that those driving under the influence of alcohol or psychotropic drugs be subjected to a criminal process. Despite its unanimous approval, the law has not been published in the Official State Newspaper, thus preventing its enforcement.

This delay has sparked concern, particularly in light of recent fatal accidents caused by drunk drivers. Representative González has voiced his frustration, stating that the delay in publication is not the responsibility of Congress, as the reform was unanimously approved.

González stressed the urgency of the situation, stating, "It is crucial that the person responsible for publishing it acts conscientiously. Tragic incidents continue to occur." He cited a recent incident in Cancún where a 22-year-old lost his life. "I'm not sure if two or three people in the business sector are holding this back, but it's crucial that it gets published," he emphasized.