Noah's Law Enforces Stricter Regulations on Md. DUI Drivers

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A new law in Maryland hits the books: Noah's Law is a push to keep drunk drivers off the streets. It will require all drivers convicted of a DUI to have a breathalyzer installed in their vehicle, only allowing them to start if the driver has not been drinking alcohol.

It's a new law to save lives. The ignition interlock device, is now a requirement for anyone blowing a .08 during a law enforcement-administered breathalyzer test.

This comes nearly a year after the law's namesake-- 24-year-old Officer Noah Leotta, was struck and killed during a DUI check-point in Montgomery County.

Noah's image is posted on each device as a reminder.

"This image, representing all the men and women in blue, and all the victims of drunk driving," said Rich Leotta, Noah's father.

Those convicted of certain alcohol-related driving offenses will have to participate in the ignition interlock system.

Before a person can start their car, they must blow into the breathalyzer installed in their vehicle.

"It will prevent them from starting the vehicle, if that they have a blood alcohol count that is inappropriate. It will also prompt them randomly, during the time they are driving, to again breath into the ignition interlock device," said Chrissy Nizer, Motor Vehicle Administration.

It's an added measure to prevent lives from changing forever because of a intoxicated driving accident or worse, death.

For anyone convicted of blowing a .08 during a law enforcement breathalyzer test, will have the ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle for up to nine months. If they refuse the device, it's a suspension of your driver's license for up to nine months.

Under Noah's Law, a second DUI arrest would require the use of the device up to a year. For three or more DUI convictions, the required time is three years.

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