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A Michigan Democratic lawmaker has been busted under the state’s “super drunk” driving law after she was found to be more than double the legal limit.
Lauren Flynn – who was first elected in 2022 – was arraigned Tuesday over an alleged drunk driving offense that dated back to the summer.
Mom of two Flynn, 46, was pulled over while driving in Grand Traverse County on July 24 and recorded a blood-alcohol concentration reading of at least 0.17% – more than double the state’s limit of 0.08%, WPBN reported.
She has been charged with a misdemeanor offense under what is known as the “super drunk” law and faces up to 180 days in county jail if convicted.
The penalties under the “super drunk” law are stricter than a standard operating while intoxicated charge, which can result in a jail sentence up to 93 days for first time offenders.
Flynn appeared at her arraignment via Zoom – and her attorney, Jesse Williams, pleaded not guilty on the lawmaker’s behalf.
The politician, who has been elected twice to represent District 2 of the Grand Traverse County Commission, is currently out on undisclosed bond and has been ordered to not drink or take drugs, urged not to venture into bars or casinos, and is forced to take twice daily breath tests.
Flynn stayed silent during most of her arraignment – only speaking to confirm personal details.
Her arraignment was delayed as neighboring Antrim County, rather than Traverse County, is presiding over the case.
Flynn, a single mom to two teen girls, has not commented on her arraignment and it’s unclear when she will appear in court.
She was arraigned just two years after winning re-election, cruising to a near 13 point victory over her Republican rival, Daniel Smith, in November 2024.
Flynn’s work concentrates on trying to achieve quality and affordable child care for parents in the district and cost-effective housing.
During her campaign, she told how she was forced to put the degree she was working towards at Central Michigan University on hold, moving to Traverse City.
She alluded to personal struggles involving her and her now-late husband, particularly how high daycare costs added “stress that contributed to the breakdown of [their] marriage.”
“Ensuring affordable daycare is not just a priority for me—it’s a necessity,” she said.