Supporters Of Ignition Interlock Law Push For Changes

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Supporters of expanding ignition interlock requirements to all drunk drivers in Maryland are criticizing changes made to the measure by lawmakers.

The House Judiciary Committee passed the bill to the House floor last week, but supporters said Thursday the measure has been watered down.

The bill would require all drivers with blood alcohol contents of 0.08 or greater to have the devices installed in their cars. State law now requires them for those with a BAC of 0.15.

Lawmakers changed the bill so that suspected drunk drivers who refuse to take the alcohol breath test would not be required to have ignition interlocks. Relatives of drunk-driving victims held a news conference Thursday before a Senate bill hearing to call for restoring the provisions taken out by the House panel.

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