Ignition interlock devices.

Assembly Members Petrie-Norris and Ransom have introduced legislation that would permanently extend California's ignition interlock device (IID) requirements for DUI offenses while making installation mandatory for first-time offenders. The bill removes the January 1, 2026 sunset date from existing IID provisions and eliminates courts' discretion to waive installation for initial DUI convictions.

Under the proposed changes, courts must order IID installation upon a person's first DUI conviction. The devices, which prevent vehicle operation if alcohol is detected in the driver's breath, must be maintained with service checks every 60 days. The bill preserves the current graduated installation periods based on prior offenses - ranging from 6 months for first-time offenders to 36 months for those with multiple DUI convictions.

The legislation maintains the existing income-based fee structure for IID programs, with costs allocated between offenders and manufacturers according to the person's income relative to federal poverty levels. It also continues requirements that installers monitor and report any tampering attempts or maintenance failures to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

While removing certain administrative reporting mandates, the bill retains criminal penalties for violations of IID requirements, including attempted removal or bypassing of devices. Local agencies would implement these provisions without state reimbursement, as the changes fall under constitutional exemptions for modifications to criminal penalties.

The measure aims to standardize California's approach to DUI prevention by making IID installation a consistent requirement rather than a discretionary sanction. This aligns with research indicating that IIDs can reduce repeat DUI offenses while allowing offenders to maintain employment and fulfill family obligations through restricted driving privileges.