The Transportation Committee held a public hearing on Tuesday June 14, among the agenda items was Senate Bill 1746, “An Act Relative to Ignition Interlock Devices,” sponsored by Senator Hedlund and co-sponsored by 7 legislators.

The bill is aimed at requiring the use of ignition interlock devices, so called because they prevent the operation of a motor vehicle while the driver is under the influence, for first time offenders. Currently 27 states require the use of ignition interlock for first time offenders, and statics have shown that these devices reduce DUI recidivism by as much as 64% according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

As of 2009, when the ignition interlock program was first used for repeat DUI offenders in the Commonwealth, only 2 of the over 533 who have completed the interlock program have been rearrested on OUI charges. 49 other states require the use of ignition interlock devices for repeat offenders, with programs effectively cutting recidivism.

“Statistics have shown that about 1/3 of those drivers arrested on DUI/OUI charges will become convicted repeat offenders,” said Senator Hedlund. “The interlock program in the Commonwealth has a proven track record. Senate Bill 1746 continues the good work of Melanie’s Law and will be even more effective in keeping Massachusetts roadways safe from drunk drivers.”

Senator Hedlund offered testimony in support of Senate Bill 1746, along with MADD and other concerned citizens. “Every repeat offender was a first-time offender once,” said David DeIuliis, the interim state director for Massachusetts Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD). “If the objective is to reduce drunk driving and reduce repeat offenses, an easy way to do it is to take the first offense more seriously.”

The legislation is awaiting the Transportation Committee’s executive session, where they will recommend the bill as favorable, not favorable, or send to study. Senator Hedlund is anticipating a favorable report from the committee, and looks forward to advancing Senate Bill 1746 to the Senate floor.