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Interlock devices have blocked over 180,000 alcohol-impaired driving attempts since 2006
DENVER, CO - The House today advanced a bill, sponsored by Representatives Amy Paschal and Jamie Jackson, on a preliminary vote to improve road safety. HB26-1242 would require all drivers who are convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol to install an interlock device in their car.
“We know that the interlock device is an effective tool to decrease impaired driving and driving on a suspended license, which makes road travel safer for all of us,” said Rep. Amy Paschal, D-Colorado Springs. “Too many families have suffered from drunk driving accidents, which is why I’m sponsoring this legislation to strengthen the tools that we have to keep dangerous drivers off of our roads. This bill is an important step in improving road safety and preventing drunk driving to protect Colorado lives.”
“These interlock devices are successful at blocking drunk driving attempts, which saves lives from avoidable car accidents,” said Rep. Jamie Jackson, D-Aurora. “Many Coloradans can’t get to their job without driving a car, and sometimes people are choosing between driving with a suspended license or their job. By requiring all drivers with DUIs to install interlock devices and removing the two-month suspension period, we can better ensure that these drivers are sober when sharing the roads with the rest of us.”
Currently, a person who is convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol for the first time must either install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle or have their driver’s license revoked for nine months before they are able to legally drive again. HB26-1242 would require first-time DUI offenders to hold an interlock-restricted driver’s license while their license is suspended and for nine months after their driver’s license is reinstated. Drivers with multiple DUIs are already required to install an interlock device in their vehicles.
The bill removes a two-month license suspension for drivers who wish to immediately install an interlock device in their vehicles, removing barriers to accessing their workplace, school and health care.
HB26-1242 would also provide clarity around the financial assistance program by defining income eligibility as 150 percent of the federal poverty level. Under the bill, interlock device manufacturers must provide a 50 percent monthly service discount with free or discounted installation and removal for individuals who meet the income eligibility requirement.
A 2018 report found that laws that require all DUI offenders to install an interlock device in their vehicle reduce the number of impaired drivers in fatal crashes by 16 percent.