ANNAPOLIS, MD (WJZ) – Maryland senators are backing a bill to require people convicted of drunken driving for the first time to install ignition locking devices in their vehicles.
Senators voted 44 to 0 Friday in support of the measure.

Offenders would also pay for the costs of putting the systems in their vehicles.

Gov. Martin O’Malley has said he would sign such legislation.

A drunken driver would have to participate in the program for six months on a first violation. People given probation would not have to participate.

The device, which is installed in the dashboard of a vehicle, requires a person to blow into it. If a driver’s breath alcohol content is above a set limit, the car won’t start.

The bill now moves to the House for consideration.