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New legislation in Virginia would require that ignition interlock devices be installed on the vehicles of any drivers convicted of Virginia DUI, including first-time offenders.
HB 1197 was introduced by Sal R. Iaqunito, a Republican delegate from Virginia Beach, and the House of Delegates passed the legislation on February 10, with an 84-13 vote. According to the bill, a convicted DUI offender would not be able to have the interlock ignition device removed from his or her vehicle for at least 6 months.
Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device affixes to the dashboard of a vehicle. When installed, the driver must blow into a breath analyzer before starting the vehicle. If the analyzer determines the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) is higher than the level programmed into the device, then the vehicle's ignition will not function and the car will not turn on.
Currently, Virginia law only requires ignition interlock devices for repeat DUI offenders, or for individuals whose blood alcohol content registered at .15 or higher. However, judges currently have the option of ordering the installation ignition interlock devices if they deem them necessary.
New Virginia DUI Law Would Follow National Trend
If this proposed DUI legislation is signed into law by Governor Bob McDonnell, Virginia would become the 11th state to mandate the use of ignition interlock devices in all DUI convictions. Currently, 47 states utilize ignition interlock devices in some form or another to punish those found guilty of driving under the influence.
HB 1197 has been assigned to the Senate's Special Courts of Justice Subcommittee.
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