More and more states following NM's lead in strict ignition interlock law

Since when did New Mexico lead the nation in trends? Apparently now, according to Stateline.org.

New Mexico was the first state to require ignition interlocks for first convictions in 2005 when it had the eighth-highest alcohol-related fatality rate in the country. Since then, six other states have joined the Land of Enchantment in requiring that first-time penalty.

And California, Pennsylvania and New York are considering similar bills that would strengthen their existing laws.

The only states that have no ignition interlock laws are Alabama, South Dakota and Vermont.

Stateline.org says in its story:

In the year after the law was enacted, drunk-driving fatalities fell 12 percent and the state dropped to having the 14th highest alcohol-related death rate, according to the DUI Attorneys Nationwide, an association that monitors the progress and litigates drunk-driving cases, and New Mexico's Department of Public Safety. 

“It’s compelling as a lawmaker when you meet with a family who has had someone die because of drunk driving,” said Rep. Ken Martinez, sponsor of New Mexico’s bill.

More than 17,000 deaths were blamed on alcohol-related crashes in 2006, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Ignition interlocks have been shown to reduce drunk driving by 45 to 90 percent, a 2007 report by the National District Attorneys Association found.

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