House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

In the near future, I will introduce legislation requiring all individuals convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) to install an ignition interlock system as a precondition to obtaining a restricted license from PennDOT.

Ignition interlock systems play a vital role in preventing individuals from driving under the influence. Unlike any other penalty or fine that is imposed on drunk drivers, interlock prevents DUI(s) before they occur. This preemptive enforcement mechanism prevents drunk drivers from getting on the road and helps save lives.

Under current law, only individuals convicted of a second or subsequent DUI are required to install an ignition interlock system on their vehicles. This means that every individual who has been required to get an ignition interlock got a free pass on their first offense and was convicted of DUI a second time. I see no reason why ignition interlock should not be mandated for first time DUI offenders. First time offenders engage in the same reckless activity as second time offenders and put the safety and lives of countless Pennsylvanians at risk.

My legislation would correct this situation by mandating ignition interlock for all DUI offenders, even first time offenders. Under the bill, ignition interlock would be required in order for any individual, whose license has been suspended for DUI, to obtain a restricted license. Currently, fifteen states including New York and Virginia have laws making ignition interlock mandatory for first time DUI offenders. I believe the time has come to make Pennsylvania the sixteenth.

Please join me in co-sponsoring this important piece of legislation.