Those who choose to drink and drive in Oklahoma will soon face a tougher penalty.
As The Duncan Banner reports, Governor Mary Fallin has signed a law that will result in an ignition interlock on all Oklahoma offenders’ vehicles after their first offense. Previously, the state only required the interlock for multiple offenders and first-timers with a .15 blood-alcohol level.
The interlock is essentially a breathalyzer lock for the car, which prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the breath of the driver. The new law also creates a program to help drunk drivers get back on their feet after arrest.
The law, written by Senator Kim David, was originally known as State Bill 643. It goes into effect on Nov. 1.
Oklahoma is the 29th state to pass a law like this. Other High Plains states with laws requiring ignition interlocks include Texas and Kansas.
