Advocates in New York are pushing for a strengthened law that would require the installation of ignition interlock devices in an effort to curb drunk driving in the state.
The proposal targets loopholes in existing laws that have allowed many convicted of drunken driving to avoid installing such a device.
State Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner champions the measure, asserting that ignition interlocks have been successful in preventing repeat offenses and improving road safety. The proposed law would mandate all drunken driving convicts to install these devices in any vehicle they operate and remain violation-free for a certain period to regain full licensing.
The proposed measure also permits courts to extend ignition interlock requirements in lieu of revoking licenses. It stipulates that those convicted of drunken driving with high blood alcohol content, those who refuse testing, have a prior conviction, or are impaired by alcohol and drugs must complete 180 days with an ignition interlock device or be violation-free for 120 days.
The bill, which has already gained approval in the Democratic-led state Senate, is considered an effective solution to reducing alcohol-impaired driving. The move comes in the wake of a 52% increase in drunk driving deaths in New York since 2019, underscoring the urgent need for effective preventative measures.
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