We often debate new laws after they’ve already been passed. That was certainly the case this morning when I took the details of a new Missouri DWI law to the streets and presented them to the people.
Basically, the law states this:
If you receive a second or subsequent DWI, you’ll be required as part of your penalty to install a forty-dollar device to your car. What that device will do is essentially require you to take a breathalyzer test every time you get behind the wheel. If you blow above .02, the car won’t start. You’ll also be responsible for a sixty-five dollar monthly fee that would go toward maintenance of the device.
Furthermore, the device can require you blow into it again once you’ve hit the road. Should you fail that test, the horn will begin to honk uncontrollably. I assume this would notify police and others that something is out of sorts.
The opinions on this particular subject are many.
On the one hand, you have individuals who think it’s a good idea. They say it just makes good common sense and should work as a good prevention tool.
Others take a much different view.
Their take is that anyone with two or more DWI’s should not be permitted to drive a car in the first place. Therefore, not devices are needed. They view the law as unnecessary and a waste of time.
So what do you think?
I’d love to hear your thoughts on the matter. You can respond right here on the blog, or send an email to jbell@entercom.com.
I look forward to further discussion.