ATLANTA, GA. (WTXL) - Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) held a press conference at the Capitol with members of Georgia House of Representatives to discuss legislative responses to the tragic loss of life caused by drunk drivers and underage drinking.
According to MADD, Monday Rep. Tom Rice was on hand to discuss HB 205 dealing with ignition interlock devices, or in-car breathalyzers, that require convicted drunk drivers to prove they are sober before the car will start. So far 24 states have laws requiring the use of this technology for all convicted drunk drivers, including first time offenders. The current interlock law in Georgia requires the devices for repeat offenders but not first time offenders as a condition of probation. However, there is no provision for interlock usage by first time offenders and not every convicted DUI repeat offender is ordered on probation.
Also on the MADD legislative agenda are House Bills 42 and 152. HB42, the Jordan Griner Act sponsored by Rep. Earnest Smith would increase penalties for first time offenders. HB152 sponsored by Rep. Geoff Duncan imposes reporting requirements for alcohol related incidents on establishments that sell alcohol and creates a minimum age for certain employees of drinking establishments.
