Kentucky Ignition Interlock Bill for Drunken Drivers Heads to Senate

The Kentucky House has passed a bill aimed at toughening Kentucky’s DUI laws by requiring convicted drunken drivers to install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles.

The bill cleared the House on a 96-0 vote Wednesday and now goes to the Senate.

The measure would require convicted drunken drivers to install the interlock devices, which test the driver’s breath for alcohol before allowing the engine to start.

The bill’s main sponsor, Democratic Rep. Dennis Keene, says the devices would save lives.

Keene nearly lost his daughter, Kelly, who was a victim in a drunken-driving accident more than a decade ago. Her injuries resulted in multiple surgeries.

Keene says the bill would allow convicted drunken drivers to carry on with their lives by being able to get to work.