MADD And Lawmakers Discuss New PA Ignition Interlock Law

By Jim Melwert

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Mothers Against Drunk Driving joined legislators and law enforcement today to talk about Pennsylvania's new law regarding ignition interlock-devices, which keep a car from starting if the driver has alcohol on his or her breath.

In Pennsylvania, ignition interlock devices had been required for repeat DUI offenders. Under a new law signed last month, first-time offenders will be required to have an interlock system for 12-months, but with the new legislation, once the device is installed driving privileges will be restored during what would otherwise be a one-year license suspension.

A reminder of the potential consequences of drunk driving, Maggie Hannagan, who says she's attending what would have been her daughter Charlotte's high school graduation this evening:

"My daughter and her brother Miles were killed by a drunk driver last year. Charlotte's spot in the ceremony will be represented by an empty chair and a rose and a moment of silence.

Legislators say it will take a year to 15-months for full implementation of the devices, which cost about $100 per month.

MADD officials say across the country interlock devices have stopped 1.8 million drunk driving attempts.