New Jersey Drunken Driver Ignition Lock Bill Approved

Some first-time drunken drivers will have to install ignition interlock devices under legislation passed by lawmakers in New Jersey.

The bill, which was signed into law this month, requires first-time drunken drivers with a blood-alcohol level of 0.15 percent or higher – nearly twice New Jersey’s .08 limit – to install the device. The ignition interlock won’t let the vehicle start until the driver blows into the Breathalyzer-like device and is deemed sober.

Judges currently have the option of requiring the devices for first-time offenders for six months to a year after their license is restored. The devices are already required for repeat offenders.