Restricted License for DUI Offenders Requires Breath Tester
7 December 2000
Restricted License for DUI Offenders Requires Installation of Breath Tester
SACRAMENTO, Calif.--Dec. 6, 2000--In accordance with a new law, AB 2227 by Assemblyman Tom Torlakson, motorists can now install an ignition interlock device that disables their vehicle if the driver has alcohol on their breath. The new technology is intended for motorists who have been convicted of multiple offenses of driving under the influence (DUI). Under the new law, these motorists can drive with a restricted driver license only if they have the device in place and have served at least half of their license suspension, show proof of financial responsibility, evidence of completion of a substance abuse prevention program, and clear all other suspension or revocation actions on their driving record."This technology will save lives because it is an affective deterrent to drinking and driving," said DMV Director Steven Gourley. "It's one more step to ensure that people who have a drinking problem don't get behind the wheel of a car and put other people at risk. With this device, their car won't start."
The DMV will evaluate the impact of the new law on the subsequent driving record of interlock program participants, and plans to report those results to the California Legislature.
The DMV licenses drivers, maintains driving records; registers and tracks official ownership of vehicles and vessels; investigates auto and identity related fraud; and licenses car dealers, driving schools and traffic violator schools. The department is under the direction of Secretary Maria Contreras-Sweet and the Business, Transportation and Housing Agency.
