Ignition Interlock Device Now Required for First DWI Offense in Louisiana

A new law went into effect this week (Monday, July 1) that will result in stiffer penalties for first-time drunk driving convictions. That includes installing an ignition interlock device to allow drivers to drive. Baton Rouge Sen. Rick Edmonds authored the legislation, which lawmakers approved on the last day of Louisiana’s special crime session, Feb. 29. The House voted 93-1 in favor of Senate Bill 7, which was unanimously approved by the Senate the same day by a vote of 38-0. Gov. Jeff Landry signed SB7 into law during a ceremony March 5.
Senator Edmonds added that the new law “further requires that the ignition interlock device remain in the vehicle for at least six months from the date of the restricted license.” If the offender’s blood alcohol concentration was 0.15 percent or higher, that person’s license will be suspended for two years.

A report by the Louisiana Radio Network states that key requirements include immediate reinstatement of driving privileges for people convicted of DUI who install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles, eliminating the previous waiting period of 30 to 45 days. Edmonds said he hopes the bill will reduce alcohol-related traffic deaths. In 2021, the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC) reported that 40% of car crashes were alcohol-related. Organizations including Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) strongly supported SB7.