The holiday weekend means some extra traffic on roads nationwide. Law enforcement across Iowa plans on keeping pace by putting extra enforcement out as well. Marion County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Brian Bigaouette tells KNIA/KRLS News that they’ll be participating in the Special Traffic Enforcement Program this weekend. He explains the program distributes federal funds to allow law enforcement officers to work extra hours. Those officers then patrol high-traffic areas.

The main emphasis of the program in Iowa is to prevent drunk driving and promote wearing seat belts. Lieutenant Bigaouette says that it’s not a “gotcha” program. He says they want to be visible so drivers are more aware of their presence throughout the weekend. Then they’ll be more likely to follow traffic laws and take precautions.