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Maryland Considers New Drunk Driving Law

February 24, 2010
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Maryland lawmakers and the group Mothers Against Drunk Driving hold a press conference in front of the Maryland State House. They're calling for a new law to be passed requiring all convicted drunk drivers to install ignition interlock devices in their cars.
David Schultz
Maryland lawmakers and the group Mothers Against Drunk Driving hold a press conference in front of the Maryland State House. They're calling for a new law to be passed requiring all convicted drunk drivers to install ignition interlock devices in their cars.

By David Schultz

A new Maryland law requires anyone convicted of a DUI to install an ignition interlock machine in their cars. The machine is essentially a breathalyzer tube connected to a car's ignition. The driver has to blow into the tube before starting their car.

Delegate Ben Kramer, a Democrat from Montgomery County, is one of nearly four dozen sponsors of the bill. He says it's effective and humane.

"It affords the individual the opportunity to continue with their employment, continue with their schooling, continue providing for the family and take care of family needs," says Kramer. "The only thing they'll have to do is be sober."

The bill died last year in the House Judiciary Committee. Kramer says some Delegates thought it was too punitive.

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