Austin Police start DWI 'No Refusal' initiative for Labor Day weekend

AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Austin Police Department (APD) said it is enforcing a DWI No Refusal Initiative for the Labor Day weekend.

APD's initiative began on Thursday and will last through Monday, Sept. 2, the release said.

Officers will apply for blood search warrants on suspects who refuse to provide a breath or blood sample as required by law, the release said.

"This initiative is an effort to enforce DWI laws (and) keep the public safe by encouraging drivers to make responsible decisions," the release said.

In June, the City of Austin announced a No Refusal initiative throughout the summer to crack down on impaired driving, leaders said in an Austin Mobility newsletter.

The city's summer initiative was done in collaboration between the Austin Police Department and the city’s Vision Zero program.

Kelsey Thompson contributed to this story.