7/13/07-Gov. Kathleen Blanco has signed a bill into law that requires drivers convicted of a first drunken-driving offense to lose their licenses for a year. State law now requires a loss of driving privileges for 90 days.
The new law, previously HB652, allows first-time offenders to obtain a "hardship license" if they have an ignition interlock device installed onto their primary vehicle. The license would only be valid for drivers to travel back and forth to work, school or church.
The interlock is hooked up to the ignition of the vehicle. Once the device is installed, a driver must blow into a mouthpiece, which measures the amount of alcohol on a person's breath. If the driver blows clean, the car will then start; if not, it won't budge.
In addition, the devices often require drivers to re-blow in the machine after a designated period of time, to ensure that they have not convinced someone else to blow into the mouthpiece for them, or that they haven't been drinking since getting behind the wheel.
Repeat offenders would face the loss of their license for 24 months. Existing state law calls for a 12-month ban. Subsequent convictions would result in three year bans instead of two.
Drivers who choose to obtain hardship licenses would be required to have the ignition interlock installed for the duration of their license suspensions.
The cost of installing the devices would be the driver's responsibility.
The new law takes effect Aug. 15.
7/3/07-The Legislature was able to reach agreement on a bill that would get tough with drivers in the state who get behind the wheel after drinking too much.
House and Senate lawmakers unanimously approved a compromise version of a bill that would require drivers convicted of a first drunken-driving offense to lose their licenses for a year. State law now requires a loss of driving privileges for 90 days.
Sponsored by Rep. Ernest Wooton, R-Belle Chasse, HB652 now heads to Gov. Kathleen Blanco's desk. She can sign it, let it become law without her signature, or veto it.
First-time offenders could obtain a "hardship license" if they have installed an ignition interlock device onto their primary vehicle. The license would only be valid for drivers to travel back and forth to work, school or church.
Repeat offenders would face the loss of their license for 24 months. Existing state law calls for a 12 month ban. Subsequent convictions would result in three year bans instead of two.
Drivers who choose to obtain hardship licenses would be required to have the ignition interlock installed for the duration of their penalty.
For bill status, call (225) 342-2456. In Louisiana, call 1-800-256-3793.
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