A new Ohio law sets specific standards for presuming that drivers are under the influence of illicit drugs, the Columbus Dispatch reported May 12.

The law signed by Gov. Bob Taft spells out penalties for driving under the influence of illicit drugs, even if only trace amounts are detected. A dozen states now have such laws on the books.

Supporters said the measure brings needed clarity. "It makes it a much fairer playing field for everyone: law enforcement, the courts, drivers who take the wheel," said Sen. Steve Austria (R-Beavercreek). "It varied from court to court and county to county and judge to judge depending on their definition of who was impaired."

But critics like the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws slammed the measure for punishing drivers who have drug metabolites in their bodies, saying that the standards open the door to prosecuting drivers long after they consume marijuana or other drugs and are no longer impaired. "Arresting someone who used marijuana two, four, 10, 20 days ago is not enhancing public safety," said NORML executive director Allen St.  Pierre. "In the end, it's science that needs to be logically dictating the law. I'm not sure why the politics drove this when the science does not support it."