Staff Analysis of the Legislation
|
SB 485 amends Title 40 and Title 42 of the OCGA on matters related to the ignition interlock program. The amendment requires the installation of ignition interlock devices for first-time alcoholic DUI offenders under probation. For nonviolent first-time offenders, the amendment removes a hardline 120-day driver’s license suspension and, instead, allows these offenders to enter the 180-day interlock program, a program that can accumulate credit prior to and post-conviction. Second-time offenders must successfully complete a 12-month interlock program. Second-time offenders may not waive program requirements due to financial hardship. The Department of Driver Services and judges may issue an interlock device reduced fee voucher to any applicant who demonstrates undue financial hardship. Both kinds of offenders may apply for reinstatement of a suspended driver’s license upon completion. This amendment further eliminates the issuance of limited driving permits and limited driving locations for current program participants. The offenders from alternative judication tracks such as accountability courts have the same access and are subjected to the same requirements of the program as other participants. |