Ignition interlock devices.

Assembly Members Petrie-Norris and Ransom propose significant changes to California's ignition interlock device (IID) requirements for driving under the influence offenses. The legislation makes IID installation mandatory for first-time DUI offenders and extends the program indefinitely, removing the current January 2026 sunset date.

The bill restructures IID costs by requiring providers to implement income-based fee schedules tied to federal poverty levels. Individuals with incomes at 125% or below of the federal poverty level pay 10% of total costs, while those between 126-225% pay 25%, and those between 226-325% pay 50%. IID providers must absorb remaining costs not covered by individuals' income-based contributions. The legislation defines total costs to include program administration, device installation, maintenance, recalibration, and associated expenses.

The Department of Motor Vehicles gains expanded oversight responsibilities, including monitoring installation compliance and maintaining detailed program data. The department must now report additional metrics to the Legislature annually, such as crash statistics and subsequent violations for first-time offenders required to install IIDs. The bill also clarifies definitions of device tampering and bypass attempts, specifying that failing random retests or having a breath alcohol concentration above 0.03% constitutes a violation.

The measure maintains existing exemptions for employer-owned vehicles used for work purposes, provided proper notification requirements are met. However, vehicles owned by businesses controlled by individuals subject to IID requirements do not qualify for this exemption. Local agencies will implement these changes without state reimbursement, as the modifications relate to crime definition and penalties.