Drunk driving is more than just a personal choice—it’s a deadly threat to society. Every time someone gets behind the wheel under the influence, they put innocent lives at risk. I know this firsthand. I lost my best friend, US Marine Corporal Justin Ford, to a drunk driver—a college student driving over 100 miles an hour, who should never have been allowed to reach such a dangerous speed with their impaired judgment.

Justin was a dedicated Marine who had pledged to serve his country, writing his death will before deploying to protect the freedoms we hold dear. He was an honorable man ready to embrace fatherhood and pursue a college education. Yet, his life was tragically cut short by a preventable act of recklessness.

It is unacceptable that our laws do not hold individuals who commit such acts accountable in a way that prevents future tragedies. Despite the growing awareness of the dangers of drunk driving, it remains a pervasive issue, highlighting gaps in our legal system's ability to deter such irresponsible behavior.

To honor Justin's memory and to protect others from similar heartache, we are calling on Congress to take decisive action by drafting a bill that immediately bans driving privileges for anyone convicted of a DUI offense. This measure is crucial in ensuring that drunk drivers are held accountable for their potentially lethal actions. By implementing stricter punishments, we can work toward a future where families and communities do not have to suffer unnecessary losses.

Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicate that in 2020 alone, there were over 11,654 deaths related to drunk driving in the United States. These numbers are still alarmingly high, despite years of campaigning for safer roads. Therefore, it is clear that more stringent actions are necessary to achieve substantial change.

By banning driving privileges for DUI offenders, we send a clear message that we value human life and are committed to making our roadways safer for everyone. We cannot bring Justin back, but we can ensure that his sacrifice leads to a legacy of increased safety and responsibility on America's roads.

Please join us in demanding that Congress enacts this law to save lives and spare other families from the pain that we have endured. Sign the petition to take a stand against drunk driving and make our communities safer. Justin’s mother is Becky. She demands that something has to change. She is without a son because of recklessness.