Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy recently signed a law into effect that would require all first-time DUI offenders in the state to install an ignition interlock deice on their car beginning mid-2015. Connecticut joins 24 other states that have interlock device requirements for all DUI offenders.

Changes to Come in Mid-July 2015

Beginning July 1, 2015, the Department of Motor Vehicles can require first time DUI offenders to install an interlock device on their vehicle. The use of interlock devices were previously only required for those on their second DUI conviction. Interlock devices are paid for by the convicted driver.

This marks one step in a string of maneuvers the state is trying to make to cut down on impaired, reckless, and distracted driving. The goal of this particular bill is to reduce the number of repeat drunk driving convictions. Malloy noted that around 40% of fatal traffic accidents involve alcohol. In Fairfax, CT, there is an arrest for drunk driving arrests every 2.5 days. Ignition interlock devices can reduce instances of drunk driving by 67%.

The law includes other provisions for those in violation of drunk driving laws, such as:

• Reduces license suspension to 45 days
• Removes the 90 day waiting period for special operator's permit after refusing a blood alcohol content test
• Changes license suspension period for those that do not install the interlock device
• Allows out-of-state DUIs to be subject to ignition interlock device requirements
• Decreases the suspension period for drivers under 21 convicted of their second DUI

An ignition interlock is a cell phone-sized device that is wired into a vehicle's ignition system. The vehicle will not start unless the driver blows into the device and alcohol is read on the breath.

In surveys of ignition interlock device users, it is reported that the devices change drunk driving habits and some users keep the device on the car after the required period. The Centers for Control estimates that before being caught, a drunk driving offender has driven under the influence at least 80 times before.