This bill amends the definition of an "Ignition Interlock Device" in RSA 259:43-a to specify the alcohol concentration level that must be met for the device to allow a vehicle to start. The amendment sets the alcohol ignition interlock devices to a preset level of 0.020, replacing the previous unspecified preset level. An ignition interlock device is a system that connects a breath analyzer to a vehicle's ignition system, measuring the breath alcohol concentration of a person attempting to start the vehicle and preventing the vehicle from starting if the alcohol concentration is above the set level.

The bill also includes a data-logger within the device to retain records of test failures between recalibrations. The effective date of this act is January 1, 2024, as approved on June 1, 2023. This means that from the beginning of 2024, all ignition interlock devices installed in vehicles must be set to prevent operation if the driver's breath alcohol concentration is 0.020 or higher.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 259:43-a
Version adopted by both bodies: 259:43-a
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 259:43-a