Rep. Tom Knox is proposing a new law for the state of Georgia that would give judges discretion on a case-by-case basis as to whether ignition interlock devices should be required, even for 1st time DUI offenders. Washington State actually already has a first-time offender ignition interlock device law in place that is much more stringent. The Washington law requires the installation of the device for every DUI conviction, even a first offense.
If you are convicted of drunk driving here in WA State, you will be required to have an ignition interlock device put into any car that you drive for a period of one year from the date that you are eligible to have your driving privileges reinstated. This includes work vehicles unless your employer signs a waiver, and it’s approved by the Washington State Department of Licensing. This is one of the many reasons why our Washington State and Seattle DUI attorneys fight so hard to try and get first time offenders’ charges reduced down from Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants.
The legislation proposed in Georgia would allow judges to order the installation of an ignition interlock device following any conviction for a DUI. Under the proposed law, a judge would be able to stipulate the mandatory installation of the device for all DUI cases, including first time offenders.
Rep. Knox hopes that his proposed legislation will help decrease DUI arrests, especially for those who are repeat offenders. The Washington DUI law regarding mandatory installation was enacted under a similar rationale.