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DUI Prevention: Alaska Requires DUI offenders to install Ignition Interlock Device |
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Written by DUI Daily Staff
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Thursday, 26 June 2008 |
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Representative Kevin Meyer, R-Anchorage, today announced that two bills he sponsored have been signed into law. House Bill (HB) 19 requires a person who has been convicted of driving under the influence to install and maintain an ignition interlock device on the vehicle they intend to drive. The device analyzes the person's blood alcohol content (BAC) and prevents the car from being started if the person's BAC is above a set level.
As a DUI prevention program, "HB 19 changes the dynamic for DUI offenders. Now, if they can't blow, they can't go," said Meyer. "This bill will make our roads safer, and send a stronger message to offenders by reinforcing their punishment every day."
House Bill (HB 320) treats search and rescue volunteers assisting the Alaska State Troopers in a mission as state employees for the purpose of providing workers compensation. While the State of
Alaska provides workers compensation to many different types of volunteers, the brave men and women assisting the Troopers in search and rescue missions have not been covered.
Rep. Kevin Meyer "Ours is a large and imposing state, and we depend on volunteer search and rescue workers to ensure that lives are saved and people are returned to their friends and families," said Meyer. "Providing this coverage is fair, and the least we can do for volunteers who take the time to save others."
HB 19 takes effect Jan. 1, 2009. Under provisions of
Alaska 's constitution, HB 320 will take effect in 90 days.
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