Arizona Governor Signs Law Mandating Ignition Interlocks for All Drivers Convicted of DUI
Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano signed a new DUI law requiring all drivers convicted of DUI to use an ignition interlock for one year. The law also requires any driver convicted of DUI with a blood alcohol level (BAC) of 0.20 to serve 45 days in jail. No jail time can be suspended by a judge.
Ignition interlocks require drivers to pass a breath test before starting their cars and periodically pass breath tests while driving. If the driver fails a breath test, his vehicle’s engine either will not start or stop running.
New Mexico is the only other state, at this time, requiring interlocks for all DUI offenders. Currently 7,000 people in Arizona are required to have ignition interlocks. Officials expect another 14,000 drivers to be subject to the interlock law.