Missouri House reiterates need for ignition interlocks for repeat drunken drivers

Jefferson City, MO

The Missouri House wants to increase the use of ignition interlock devices for convicted drunken drivers. Gov. Matt Blunt this year said judges are not doing a good enough job of enforcing Missouri's drunken-driving laws and requiring ignition interlock devices.

A law passed in 2001 requires ignition interlock devices on vehicles of people convicted of two or more drunken-driving offenses. The House bill would require a driver to prove to the Department of Revenue that he has the device to get driving privileges reinstated.

The House also added an amendment that would let Municipal Court convictions for drunken driving count when determining repeat offenders. The state Supreme Court ruled this year that Municipal Court convictions don't count.

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