6/17/09-The Assembly Judiciary Committee approved a bill that is intended to increase the use of ignition interlock devices for drunken drivers. It now awaits clearance to the Assembly floor for further consideration.
In New Jersey, judges have authority to require use of ignition interlocks for repeat offenders or order the person to hand over the vehicle registration and license plates for two years.
A3073 would require all people convicted of driving while intoxicated to have interlocks installed on their vehicles.
First-time offenders would be required to have the devices installed for six months to a year. Repeat offenders would have the devices for one to three years.
For bill status, call 609-292-4840. In New Jersey, call 800-792-8630.
An identical Senate bill – S1926 – is in the Senate Law and Public Safety and Veterans’ Affairs Committee.