HS/HCS/HB 252 - This act contains provisions for drunk driving, suspensions and revocations, traffic offender programs and ignition interlock devices.

DRUNK DRIVING - First time offenses for driving while intoxicated (DWI) shall be reported to the Highway Patrol like all other offenses. The city of Springfield may require the forfeiture of motor vehicles illegally driven by two-time prior DWI offenders. Every applicant for a driver's license under the age of 21 shall be given DWI educational materials. Points counted against drivers' licenses are increased for excessive blood alcohol convictions (including zero tolerance violations). Every DWI violator and every "abuse & lose" violator shall complete a substance abuse traffic offender program. Parents of "abuse & lose" violators under 18 must also complete the program.

SUSPENSIONS/REVOCATIONS - The requirement for completion of a traffic offender program is added to the points suspension section (following a conviction). Hardship driving privileges may be obtained more than once in a 5-year period. Hearings may be held by telephone if requested. Drivers refusing to submit to a chemical test shall complete a substance abuse program prior to license reinstatement.

ZERO TOLERANCE FOR MINORS - Any person under age 21 who drives with 0.02% blood alcohol content shall be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor. Violators shall be subject to an administrative suspension or revocation, and points shall be assessed against the driver's license. $25 reinstatement fees are required to regain the license. A first offender of the zero tolerance law need not file proof of financial responsibility prior to getting driving privileges again.

IGNITION INTERLOCK - Beginning January 1, 1996, courts may require DWI violators who are granted probation to have ignition interlock devices placed upon the vehicle. The ignition interlock devices are mandated for second offenders placed on probation. The ignition interlock devices may also be required for limited driving privileges.

The court may require the device if there will be no undue hardship imposed by the cost of the device. There is no mandate for the device if one cannot be installed within 50 miles of the driver's county seat. The Department of Public Safety shall certify ingnition interlock devices. It is made a Class B misdemeanor to circumvent or tamper with the ignition interlock device. No one may knowingly provide an unequipped vehicle to a restricted driver (employers are exempt), and the restricted driver shall inform others of the driving restriction.
MIKE HOEFERKAMP