The Attorney General of Samoa says a soon to be passed law allowing police officers to use breathalyzer devices during normal traffic duties will make the roads safer.
The legislation, endorsed by Parliament on Wednesday will authorise traffic officers to test drivers suspected of being under the influence and to prosecute people who refuse to be tested.
The Attorney General Aumua Ming Leung Wai, who helped draft the bill, says once the law is passed, it will reinforce the idea that it is wrong to drink and drive and will make the roads safer for motorists.
"That would be achieved of course through people being discouraged from drunk driving. There will also be hopefully a change of mentality about driving under the influence, especially with people now talking about the road blocks and police officers regulating drunk driving using these breathalyzer devices on the roads."
Aumua Ming Leung Wai says the legislation also aims to give police officers additional powers by enabling them to bring drink drivers to justice.
The legislation is expected to be approved by the Head of State in the next few days before the Minister of Police confirms a date to enforce it.
