Fuschillo and Rice propose ignition interlocks for DWIs

5/15/08: Sen. Fuschillo (center) and DA Rice (2nd left) explains the interlock system. Photo from www.senatorfuschillo.com

Yesterday, May 15, New York State Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr and Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice joined by anti-DWI advocates called for mandatory probation and the installation of ignition interlock devices for all convicted drunk drivers in Long Island and five other NY counties.

Last month, Senator Fuschillo (R-Merrick) sponsored state legislation (S.08036), which creates the ignition interlock and mandatory probation pilot program and the ignition interlock fund; it requires ignition interlock device for all persons convicted of driving while intoxicated, including first time offenders. The ignition interlock device would be installed, at their own cost, in all vehicles that they use. Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg (D- Long Beach) sponsored the legislation in the Assembly.

Senator Fuschillo said, “Even though New York State has enacted a number of significant laws to combat drunk driving, people are still dying on our roadways and DWI is still the most tolerated crime in our nation. We need a new tool in our arsenal to eradicate drunk driving. Interlock systems have been proven extremely effective in ensuring that drunk drivers, including first time offenders, never drink and drive again.”

District Attorney Rice said, “Ignition Interlock gives us one more tool to ensure that first-time offenders don’t become repeat offenders. This bill is yet another piece of common sense legislation that will save lives and help law enforcement keep families safe on New York State roads. We need this bill passed.”

Ignition interlocks are devices installed in vehicles that measure alcohol in the breath; if the alcohol in the breath exceeds set legal levels it will not start.

Periods of probation will include a minimum of one year with ignition interlock for first offenses, a minimum of five years probation with interlock for second offenses and life probation and interlock for third offenses.

Since April 28, the bill has remained in the Transportation Committee.

Senator Fuschillo and DA Rice have both been strong advocates against drunk driving; earlier this week the NYS Senate passed legislation (S. 05315), which Fuschillo sponsored, establishing tougher penalties for people who drive drunk with a child in the car.This is the second time the bill has passed the Senate. The bill now goes to the Assembly for a vote.