Lawmakers are considering a bill that would require ignition interlock devices on the cars of individuals who have been arrested for their second drunken driving offense.
The bill would require judges to install the interlocks as a condition for re-instatement of driving privileges.
Twenty-four states have implemented a similar mandate.
Officials with Mothers Against Drunk Driving of Indiana say that 80 percent of public opinion polls favor ignition interlocks for people with prior drunken driving convictions.
Lael Hill with MADD Indiana says the device is aimed at grounding repeat drunken drivers.
“Sixty-seven percent of people that use ignition interlocks have a big decline in repeat offenses,” Hill says. “So ultimately it’s going to save lives and keep the roads safe.”
The bill has been assigned to the Roads and Transportation Committee. The proposal will get its first hearing on Wednesday.