Even first-time DUI offenders in Arizona are currently required to get an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle for a minimum term of one year. Repeat offenders will often be sentenced to have the ignition interlock device in their vehicles for an even longer period of time.
So it might not be too surprising to hear that the state of Arizona has some of the toughest laws in the country regarding the installation of ignition interlock devices. This is why some state lawmakers are in favor of reducing the amount of time that a first-time DUI offender would be required to have an ignition interlock device.
AZ Family reports that Senate Bill 1200 seeks to allow first-time DUI offenders to get an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicles for a time period of just six months. Offenders would only be able to get their ignition interlock device removed after six months if they have completed an alcohol or drug education or treatment program.
Supporters of the law say that 80 percent of first-time DUI offenders do not repeat the offense and that it is not necessary to have such strict laws in the state. Opponents of the law include the organization Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), who claim that the ignition interlock law works most effectively in preventing drunk driving at periods of 12 months.
Arizona lawmakers have proposed similar bills in the past to reduce the amount of ignition interlock time required for first-time DUI offenders, but so far such efforts have failed.
Related Resources:
- See a Phoenix DUI Attorney (FindLaw)
- Ignition Interlock Devices (FindLaw)
- Mixed Messages About Highway Safety in Arizona (FindLaw KnowledgeBase)
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