Lawmakers in Colorado are considering increasing the penalties for repeat DUI offenders. Currently, Colorado is among five states where DUI offenders are charged with misdemeanors, even after repeat DUI arrests.

Colorado lawmakers want to change the law so that repeat offenders face felony charges after three or more convictions. The proposal was up for its first hearing in a House Committee on Thursday, Feb. 05, 2015.

In recent years, Republicans have tried to pass a bill that would increase the penalties for multiple DUIs, however, all of their attempts thus far have failed due to concerns over the financial impact on the judicial and prison system.

How does Colorado measure up to other states?

Each state has enacted its own DUI statutes; therefore, the penalties for DUI vary from state to state. In Colorado, a third DUI offense will result in:

• 2 year driver's license revocation
• Up to one year in jail
• Up to $1,500 in fines

Let us compare the same offense to Texas. What type of penalties does a defendant face for a third DUI/DWI in the state of Texas?

Third DWI Offense in Texas:

• Up to two year driver's license revocation
• Between 2 and 10 years in prison
• A $10,000 fine
• Annual fee of $1,000 to $2,000 for three years to retain driver's license

The difference in penalties for a DUI/DWI in Colorado vs. Texas is huge. This clearly demonstrates why Colorado's current DUI penalties for multiple DUIs are somewhat lax in comparison to other states.

If you have been arrested for DUI in Colorado or anywhere else, be sure to secure an experienced DUI defense attorney. A good lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case, and whether or not you are ultimately convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.