Deana’s Law, toughening penalties for repeat DUI offenders, went into effect in November after a long journey through the state legislature, reports The Morning Call.

The bill passed the state Senate and was signed into law by Pa. Gov. Tom Wolf back in July.

 Deana’s Law makes it a third-degree felony with up to seven years in prison for those charged with DUI who have two prior DUI offenses.

For three or more prior offenses, they face a second-degree felony charge, with up to 10 years in prison.

The law also requires consecutive sentencing for certain repeat DUI offenders, and imposes an 18-month license suspension for a second-degree felony DUI conviction, according to PennDOT.  

“This law makes significant changes to existing law that will ultimately increase the protection of all drivers by keeping repeat offenders from continuing to operate a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol after being charged with a DUI,” PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian said.

 Deana’s Law is named after Deana Eckman of Brookhaven, who was struck and killed by a Newtown Square man with five DUI convictions back in 2019. Her parents spent several years lobbying legislators to pass the bill. 

Read more about Deana’s Law at The Morning Call.

Here’s a news story on Deana’s Law going into effect.