SB291 Summary

• Requires persons convicted of driving under the influence to have an ignition interlock device installed and operating on designated motor vehicles for 1-5 years depending on whether it is a first, second, third, or fourth+ conviction.

• Mandates ignition interlock device installation as a condition of bail/bond release for persons arrested for DUI violations, with 15 days to comply or face bond revocation.

• Establishes that the Department of Forensic Sciences certifies ignition interlock devices and the Department of Public Safety issues restricted driver's licenses (up to $150 fee) and regular license reinstatement (up to $75 fee).

• Provides that indigent defendants pay only 50% of interlock installation and maintenance costs, with providers contributing 3% of collections to an Alabama Interlock Indigent Fund for reimbursement.

• Creates criminal penalties for operating vehicles without required interlock devices, tampering with devices, or soliciting others to bypass devices, with extended interlock periods and jail time for violations.