HB160 Alabama 2021 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Parker MooreRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2021

Title

Driving under the influence, to require the use of ignition interlock devices in certain circumstances, Sec. 32-5A-191 am'd.

Summary

HB160 would require ignition interlock devices only for DUI convictions involving alcohol, with offense-based durations and funding rules.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, the bill limits ignition interlock requirements to alcohol-involved DUI offenses. For a first alcohol-related DUI conviction, the license suspension of 90 days can be stayed if the driver installs and uses an ignition interlock device for 90 days, with remaining suspension terms cleared after completion. For subsequent offenses, the interlock would be required for two years (second offense), three years (third offense), or four years (fourth or more offenses), with corresponding license restrictions and stay/commutation rules tied to completion of the interlock period. The bill also introduces a $200 court fee to fund interlock-related costs, outlines how fines and costs are distributed, and clarifies that local funding requirements under Amendment 621 do not apply because of specified exceptions; it also specifies the effective date.

Who It Affects

• DUI offenders whose conviction involved alcohol would be required to install and operate an ignition interlock device for a period that increases with repeat offenses (90 days for a first offense if interlock is used, 2 years for a second offense, 3 years for a third, and 4 years for a fourth or more).
• The Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency and the courts would administer and enforce the ignition interlock program, including licensing restrictions, fee collection, and monitoring of compliance.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 32-5A-191 to apply ignition interlock requirements only in cases where the DUI involved alcohol.
• Sets offense-based durations for ignition interlock use: 90 days for a first offense (with the 90-day suspension stayed if interlock is installed and used for 90 days), 2 years for a second offense, 3 years for a third offense, and 4 years for a fourth or subsequent offense.
• Requires proof of interlock installation to obtain and maintain restricted driving licenses; provisions allow the suspension or revocation period to be stayed or commuted upon successful completion of the interlock requirements.
• Imposes a $200 court fee to support the ignition interlock program, with specified distribution to various funds; defendants pay installation costs to approved providers unless exempted.
• Includes other penalties and enhancements (e.g., doubling of penalties if BAC is at least 0.15% or a child passenger is involved) and juvenile exemptions unless ordered by a court; requires programs and referrals related to treatment.
• Effective date: the act takes effect on the first day of the third month after passage and governor’s approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Driving Under the Influence