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Civil rights advocates question Canada’s new impaired driving law — but feds say don’t worry

Click to play video: 'Feds say new drunk driving laws come into effect on December 18'
Feds say new drunk driving laws come into effect on December 18
ABOVE: Feds say new drunk driving laws come into effect on Dec. 18 – Dec 4, 2018

Federal ministers are sidestepping any worries that a strict new law intended to curb drunk driving could threaten civil rights.

The mandatory alcohol screening that takes effect Dec. 18 allows police to demand a breath sample from any driver they lawfully stop — not just if they suspect a driver has been drinking.

The roadside test could justify further investigation, including more elaborate testing at a police station.

Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould says she has “every expectation” the new law will be challenged in the courts, but added she is confident it is consistent with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

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She says the intent is to save lives is an “incredibly justifiable purpose.”

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The Canadian Civil Liberties Association has expressed concern that mandatory alcohol screening will unfairly affect racial minorities who are disproportionately singled out by police for traffic stops.

WATCH: Bill C-46 helps gives Canada a strong regime against impaired driving.

Click to play video: 'Bill C-46 helps gives Canada a strong regime against impaired driving'
Bill C-46 helps gives Canada a strong regime against impaired driving

Organized Crime Reduction Minister Bill Blair said if a police stop were motivated by bias, it would be unlawful and contrary to the charter, and therefore a breath test would be inadmissible in court.

Research suggests that up to half of drivers with a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit are not detected at roadside check stops.

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