A new law went into effect this week [Monday, July 1] that results in tougher penalties for first-offense DWI offenders. That includes the installation of ignition locking devices in order to drive. Baton Rouge Senator Rick Edmonds authored the legislation, which lawmakers approved on the final day of Louisiana’s crime special session on February 29. The House voted 93-to-1 in support of Senate Bill 7, which was then approved unanimously the same day by the Senate 38-to-0. Governor Jeff Landry signed SB7 into law during a ceremony on March 5.
Sen. Edmonds added that the new law “further requires the ignition interlock device to remain on the vehicle for at least six months from the date of the restricted driver’s license.” If the offender had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15% or greater, the person’s driver’s license will be suspended for two years.
A report by the Louisiana Radio Network states that key requirements include the immediate reinstatement of driving privileges for DWI offenders who install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles, eliminating the previous 30-45 day waiting period. Edmonds said he hopes the law can reduce the number of alcohol-related traffic deaths. In 2021, the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC) reported that 40% of vehicle crashes were alcohol-related. Organizations including Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) strongly supported SB7.
