PA REDUCTION OF ITS DUI RATIO TO .08

       Pennsylvania was one of 31 states that risked losing millions in federal highway money if it did not lower its driving under the influence blood alcohol ratio from .10 to .08.  

       Pennsylvania was facing a lose an projected 2 percent in federal highway money.  By the year 2007, the percentage of cuts in federal funding would have escalated to 8 percent.

       Pennsylvania passed this reduction on September 30, 2003.  However the new system of penalties only became effective February of 2004.Under this reduction a 175 pound man would have to drink approximately 4 drinks in one hour to reach a blood alcohol level of .08.  A 150 pound female would have to drink approximately 3 drinks in one hour to reach a blood alcohol level of .08.  However there are many variables involved in calculating BAC.  Some of these include: how much of the drink is consumed, how fast the drink is consumed, amount of food in the stomach prior to drinking and the height, weight, and gender of the drinker.