All DUI convictions may soon result in vehicle breathalyzers.
Is a new DUI Breathalyzer Ignition Interlock law going to be enacted by the federal government? In 1998 the US Congress passed the Transportation Equity Act of the 21st Century. This act in essence mandates states to require repeat DUI offenders have breathalyzer interlocks installed in their vehicles in order to receive increased highway funding.
In December of 2009 Senator Tom Udall, a Democrat from New Mexico, introduced new legislation that would mandate states enact laws requiring all DUI offenders have ignition interlock devices (IID) placed in their cars. New Mexico was the first state to adopt such measures, though Alaska, Arizon, Arkansas, Hawaii, Louisianna, Nebraska, New York, Utah, and Washinton have the same requirement.
If the bill passes, states will have to require the vehicle breathalzyer for all DUI offenders for a period of six months. The bill’s co-sponsor is Frank R. Lautenberg of New Jersey. The bill is also supported by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
Proponents point to statistics showing a drop in repeat DUI offenders for states requiring IIDs. Meanwhile critics say that the devices are not reliable and may indicate false readings. While ignition interlock devices are not foolproof the statistics do show a drop in DUI recidivism when used.
