Drunk Driving Penalties To Increase

A third or fourth conviction for driving under the influence in Kansas will mean more jail time starting next year.

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius signed legislation imposing the tougher penalty on Monday . It takes effect in July 2010.

The penalty for a fourth DUI conviction will be at least 180 days in jail, double the current minimum, and a fine of $2,500. The time served before being eligible for a work release program goes from four days to six days.

For a third conviction, an offender will face a minimum of 90 days and at least a $1,500 fine. The offender would be eligible for work release after two days in jail.