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St. Louis Public Radio News
St. Louis Public Radio News
New Ignition Interlock Law Takes Effect
(2009-07-01)
(KBIA) - Officials in Missouri are notifying the public about the state's new ignition interlock law, which takes effect Wednesday. A person who has one in his or her car has to blow into it and not be intoxicated in order for it to start. Anyone convicted of two or more alcohol-related offenses will have to have the devise installed in their vehicle for six months if they want their driving privileges back. Ted Farnham (FAR-num) is with the Department of Revenue. He warns those subject to the new law against trying to circumvent it.

"The penalties for these offenses are stiff it's better to get through the expense and the inconvenience of having this devise in your car for six months rather than tempt fate and possibly get a much more severe punishment in the future."

Farnham says past offenders whose driving privileges have not yet been reinstated will also be subject to the new law. It's estimated that 70-thousand Missourians could be affected by the new ignition interlock devise law.
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