HB 12-1168 Summary

• Reorganizes and clarifies Colorado's ignition interlock device requirements for drivers convicted of DUI, DUI per se, DWAI, or habitual user offenses with mandatory restrictions lasting at least one year post-reinstatement.

• Allows first-time DUI/DUI per se offenders to apply for early reinstatement after one month of revocation with an interlock-restricted license, remaining in effect for at least eight months unless they demonstrate four consecutive months of clean monitoring reports.

• Establishes financial assistance program funded from the First Time Drunk Driving Offender Account to help eligible offenders pay for approved ignition interlock device installation and leasing costs.

• Makes circumventing or tampering with an ignition interlock device a Class 1 traffic misdemeanor, with mandatory license confiscation by peace officers and restrictions on plea bargaining to lesser offenses.

• Expands the definition and approval process for ignition interlock devices through the Department of Public Health and Environment, and requires monthly monitoring reports from leasing agencies to track device compliance.