Federal bill would force all states to require breath locks for drunk drivers

What does this do?

HR 2788 would create a national standard requiring states to make people convicted of drunk driving install ignition interlock devices on their vehicles. An ignition interlock is a small breathalyzer connected to a car's ignition that must be passed before the car will start. States would be required to mandate the device for at least 180 days, and drivers would need to complete a violation-free period before the device can be removed.

Who does it affect?

People convicted of drunk driving would be directly affected, as they would be required to use interlock devices in states that do not currently mandate them. All 50 states are also affected, because their federal highway funding is tied to whether they pass and enforce a qualifying law.

Why does it matter?

States that do not comply face losing a portion of federal road funding, starting at 3 percent in 2027 and rising to 5 percent in 2028 and beyond. The bill aims to reduce drunk driving crashes and fatalities, which means the outcome could affect any driver or passenger on public roads nationwide.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• 3% highway fund cut starts 2027
• Penalty rises to 5% from 2028
• Compliant states can recover withheld funds