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Increase in Iowa Alcohol-Related Fatalities Suggests Need for Change

Why Iowa needs to implement real change to decrease drunk driving

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A recent editorial in the Des Moines Register highlights the need for real change to occur in the next assembly.  According to the article, Iowa saw a stark increase in the number of alcohol or drug related fatalities over the last 4 years.  Little if anything has been done except a failed measure to enact a voluntary 24/7 Sobriety Program based off of South Dakota’s successful design.  A coalition put forth by Iowa’s governor laid forth a detailed proposition that included a number of options for the state to consider to combat the problem.  These include requiring participation in an alcohol monitoring program as used in South Dakota’s 24/7 Sobriety Program which requires participants to wear SCRAM Continuous Alcohol Monitoring bracelets and strengthening the state’s ignition interlock laws.

Drinking and driving is a real problem with deadly consequences throughout the nation.  Courts and jurisdictions that have implemented alcohol monitoring requirements such as SCRAM bracelets or remote breath alcohol testing have seen a significant reduction in repeat drunk driving incidents.  Addressing the underlying problem of drug and alcohol addiction saves lives by keeping people sober on the roads and at all times.