VIC TO INTRODUCE DRUG DRIVING LAWS

The Victorian State Government says a world-first program targeting
drivers under the influence of drugs will be made permanent.

Drivers will face tougher penalties under new laws being introduced
to the Victorian Parliament today.

Of the more than 13,000 drivers tested since December 2004, 287 have
recorded positive results for cannabis and methamphetamines.

Police Minister Tim Holding says the trial is being expanded to
include ecstasy use.

"It will now be a permanent feature of Victoria's road safety
campaign," he said.

Assistant Commissioner Noel Ashby says drugs and driving are a major problem

"We rate drugs now alongside alcohol, speed, seatbelts and fatigue as
one of the causal factors for crashes," Mr Ashby said.

Police will also be pushing for more resources and drug buses as part
of the crackdown.

The RACV's Ken Ogden has welcomed the news, saying he would like to
see every booze bus also operate as a drugs bus.

"Well we're very alarmed that the tests have shown that one in 46 are
testing positive to either cannabis or speed," he said.

"This is alarming.

"We think that the effects on road safety are considerable and we
support the Government's intention to expand the testing regime."