Many Move to Implement Ignition-Interlock Systems

Reports from the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation found that ignition interlocks can reduce DWI recidivism by 45% to 90%. Perhaps that is why the Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 2010 includes $12 million in funding for development of alcohol-detection devices that could be installed in all cars.

The government and the U.S. auto industry have been working on an improved version of the ignition-interlock device, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver has more than the legal limit of alcohol in his or her system. The bill would increase program funding from the current $2 million annually, calling for $60 million over five years.

Over 40 states already have implemented some kind of ignition-interlock legislation. For example Minnesota (one of the most recent states to enact such measures) has signed into law effective July 1, 2011 that drivers found with a 0.16% or higher blood alcohol concentration (BAC) must install ignition interlock systems  – devices that require the driver to have less than a .02 BAC in order to start their vehicle – or face license suspensions of one to six years.

Persons with three or more infractions in a 10-year period would be required to have an interlock for monitoring and prevention, or not drive at all.