Madd

MADD, originally standing for Mothers Against Drunk Driving, is a nonprofit advocacy organization focused on reducing drunk driving, preventing underage drinking, and addressing drugged driving. Founded in 1980 by Candace Lightner after the death of her daughter Cari, MADD aimed to mobilize public support and reform laws around impaired driving. The organization quickly expanded from a grassroots campaign into a national advocacy group with chapters across the United States and in several other countries. MADD's activities include lobbying for stricter DUI laws, promoting public education campaigns, providing victim services, and endorsing policies such as lower blood alcohol content thresholds, ignition interlock devices for offenders, and enhanced sobriety testing.

Over the years, MADD played a role in the passage of many state and federal measures, including the nationwide adoption of 0.08 percent blood alcohol concentration limits and enhanced penalties for repeat offenders. It also advocates for safer driving environments, such as designated driver programs and effective enforcement through sobriety checkpoints. Critics have argued that some campaigns favor punitive approaches or may overstate statistics; MADD has responded by emphasizing prevention and victim support and by working with law enforcement and health professionals.

Structure and reach: The national office coordinates a network of state and local chapters; while best known in the United States, affiliate organizations exist in other countries, including Canada and parts of Europe.