Lawmakers plan to look at strengthening DWI laws following Park Tavern tragedy

Minnesota Now

Funeral arrangements have been announced for the victims of the Park Tavern tragedy. Gabe Harvey will be laid to rest Thursday afternoon. A memorial service will be held for Kristina Folkerts next Thursday.

Steven Frane Bailey has been charged in the case. Hennepin County Mary Moriarty said his blood alcohol level was four times the legal limit at the time of the crash.

He had five previous DWI convictions and for a time had his license revoked and an interlock ignition device put on his car. That’s a technology that prevents a driver from starting their car without first passing a breathalyzer test. That restriction on Bailey had expired at the time of the crash.

The recent tragedy has raised the question of whether stricter penalties or restrictions could prevent future deaths. And a couple of lawmakers have said this question will be on the agenda during the 2025 legislative session.

DFL Sen. Ron Latz represents St. Louis Park and he’s chair of the chamber's Judiciary and Public Safety Committee. He joined MPR News host Cathy Wurzer to explain what he hopes to see changed at the Capitol.