Here we go again! The issue of requiring Interlock Ignition Devices for all DUI convictions – even first time offenses with low BAC – is circling its way through the PA General Assembly, pushed by MADD and the Interlock industry itself. If MADD and the Interlock industry were to get its way, Interlock would become standard equipment on all new cars!
November 19, 2013
“MADD thanks Senator Rafferty and Representative DeLuca for authoring lifesaving DUI reform measures. MADD appreciates their tireless work and commitment to advancing MADD’s mission in Pennsylvania by promoting effective DUI countermeasures like ignition interlocks for all convicted drunk drivers,” said MADD National President Jan Withers.
“I applaud MADD’s efforts to reduce the number of drunk drivers on the road,” said Representative Anthony M. DeLuca. “This type of legislation, requiring ignition interlocks for first time offenders, will help curb the incidence of drunk driving in Pennsylvania, make our roadways safer and prevent unnecessary fatalities caused by drunk drivers. I look forward to working with MADD and Senator Rafferty to advance this legislation.”You can read the entire article here: http://lowerprovidence.patch.com/groups/politics-and-elections/p/madd-applauds-legislative-champions_8d7d837c
We have posted on here before the empirical response to the push for more Interlock use:
Are Interlock Devices the Answer?
Problems with Interlock
Interlocks can misread a slice of pizza or a cup of coffee as an alcoholic beverage. Nail polish remover, hand sanitizing liquid, mouth wash and even plain white bread can cause a false positive. The device has even blocked out drivers for a number of DAYS after a positive test!!
Mandatory interlock devices are a very heavy penalty for a first time offender. Generally all it takes is one police contact for a person to “learn a lesson.” Even a first time offender, with an otherwise clean record, has to be publicly humiliated by this interlock device so everyone can know about their crime. A hardened alcoholic who is heck-bent on committing DUI will not be phased by the law. Where is the logic and reason in this?
Justin McShane
PA DUI attorney Justin J. McShane is the President/CEO of The McShane Firm, LLC - Pennsylvania's top criminal law and DUI law firm. He is the highest rated DUI attorney in PA as rated by Avvo.com. Justin McShane is a double Board certified attorney. He is the first and so far the only Pennsylvania attorney to achieve American Bar Association recognized board certification in DUI defense from the National College for DUI Defense, Inc. He is also a Board Certified Criminal Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, a Pennsylvania Supreme Court Approved Agency.