Background
The Ministry of Justice has received a draft Road Traffic Law and is conducting a detailed legal review of its proposed penalty provisions. The Ministry’s review specifically examines penalties for driving under the influence, with officials identifying DUI provisions as a central item for possible tightening to support road safety objectives.
Secretary of State Dr. Kim Santepheap, who also serves as Deputy Chair of the National Committee for Road Safety, led the inter-ministerial working session and was joined by a Secretary of State from the Ministry of Interior and technical officers. The meeting format reflects a coordinated review process in which justice and interior ministry officials assess legal drafting before submission for further clearance.
Scope of Application
The draft Road Traffic Law under review covers road users and traffic offenses and proposes amendments to the legal framework governing driving behaviour on public roads. The scope includes provisions that address the legal classification and sanctions for driving under the influence alongside other traffic-related offenses.
Key Provisions or Decisions
Officials focused on the section of the draft law that sets out penalties for driving while intoxicated and discussed options to strengthen sanctioning standards. The working session did not publish specific penalty amounts or measures; it concentrated on the legal text and alignment between ministries responsible for enforcement and legal oversight.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
Tighter penalties for DUI would increase compliance requirements for commercial drivers and transport operators, who typically must update internal policies and training to align with revised traffic laws. Law firms, regulatory compliance advisers, and road-transport companies may need to monitor the bill’s progress to advise clients and adjust operational procedures accordingly.
Official Source
Ministry of Justice Facebook post, 10 August 2026: source.
