New York Considers Interlock Device for All DWI Cases

Even first offenders of NY DWI would be required to install the device.

Legislation was introduced yesterday calling for the mandatory installation of ignition interlock devices for everyone convicted of driving while intoxicated in New York. Senate bill S.27-b/A.7196-a would require the installation of ignition disabling devices in vehicles owned by DWI offenders who had a blood alcohol content at or above the legal threshold of .08%.

The bill's authors say that not enough has been done to reduce drunk driving in NY. They recite information from MADD claiming that ignition interlock devices have significantly reduced alcohol related accidents. The NHTSA statistics, however, reflect that the majority of those arrested for DWI never repeat the offense.

The proposed legislation passed the Senate Transportation Committee Tuesday and has not been debated by the full body. If passed, New York will become the eleventh state to require ignition interlock devices following a conviction for DWI.

Have you been arrested for DWI in NY?