Bill > S1895

This bill aims to enhance public safety by addressing unlicensed and uninsured driving by individuals convicted of Operating Under the Influence (OUI), a criminal offense involving driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs. The core provision introduces and expands the use of ignition interlock devices, which are breathalyzers connected to a vehicle's ignition that prevent it from starting if the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) is too high. The bill modifies existing laws to allow individuals with revoked or suspended driver's licenses due to OUI offenses to apply for an "ignition interlock license," which permits them to drive only vehicles equipped with these certified devices. This license is granted after the individual provides proof of installation and maintenance of the device, and compliance with any court-ordered treatment programs or probation. The bill also outlines mandatory restrictions and conditions for these licenses, including potential revocation for non-compliance and specifies durations for device installation based on prior offenses, with provisions for extending these periods for violations.