In 2010, California implemented a pilot program in four counties: Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento and Tulare requiring drunk driving offenders to install ignition interlock devices on their vehicles. The program, which was set to end in 2015, was extended through 2018. The pilot program was implemented in an effort to curtail repeat offenders. An ignition interlock device requires the operator to blow into a device prior to and during the operation of their vehicle. If alcohol is detected the vehicle will not start or will stop working if alcohol is detected while driving. The IID requirement is just one step in a line of defenses to stop drunk driving and underlying problems with alcohol addiction.
Many jurisdictions are now also requiring electronic monitoring such as the SCRAM device to track a person’s alcohol consumption after an arrest or conviction for driving under the influence. The goal is to require complete sobriety and immediately deal with participants who are continuing to drink during the restricted period. With 24/7 monitoring probation officers, court officials and police departments are notified immediately if someone has violated the conditions of their release. The success of these programs has helped to combat the rise in alcohol related offenses that were rampant throughout the state.