Blunt signs bill requiring ignition interlocks for repeat drunk drivers

Jefferson City, MO

The state of Missouri is making changes to ensure that those convicted of drunk driving more than once have to use ignition interlock devices on their cars.

In 2005, of the 3,163 repeat DUI offenders, only 19 percent were required by the courts to install the interlocks. Governor Matt Blunt says legislation he signed Thursday that shifts the responsibility for the devices from the courts to the Department of Revenue.

"What we're passing today will ensure that in the future, going forward, there will really be an administrative procedure, the Department of Revenue will develop a good standard operating procedure to ensure that people don't slip through the cracks," he said.

The legislation also closes a loophole in state law, allowing municipal DWI's to count against a defendant who could be charged as a persistent offender.

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