Maryland Criminal Attorney Blog
Maryland Enacts New Law Requiring Enrollment in the Ignition Interlock System Program for Individuals Who Receive Probation Before Judgment (PBJ)
The Drunk Driving Reduction Act of 2016 or “Noah’s Law,” in honor of Montgomery County Police Officer Noah Leotta, who was killed in the line of duty by a drunk driver, mandates that individuals convicted of certain alcohol-related driving offenses enroll in the Ignition Interlock System Program and install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. A vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device will not start until the driver blows into the device and passes a breathalyzer test. The device prevents the vehicle from starting if even a slight amount of alcohol is detected in the user’s breath.
Noah’s Law did not initially require the ignition interlock device for drivers who pled guilty and received Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for driving under the influence, or who were convicted of the lesser offense of driving while impaired.
A 2024 amendment to Noah’s Law closes that loophole. The amended law expands mandatory participation in the Ignition Interlock System Program to include (1) an individual who is granted PBJ for driving while under the influence of alcohol or under the influence of alcohol per se (where the prior law only required participation for a person convicted of those offenses) and (2) an individual who is convicted of or granted PBJ for driving while impaired by alcohol.
Read the author’s answers to Maryland DUI/DWI frequently asked questions here.
How long will you be required to participate in the Ignition Interlock System Program?
Generally, an individual must remain in the Program for six months for a first offense, one year for a second offense, and three years for each subsequent offense. Drivers who violate the conditions of the Program, including those who attempt to drive after consuming alcohol, may face suspension or revocation of their driver’s license.
Contact the Maryland DUI Attorneys of Silverman Thompson
If you were charged with an alcohol- or drug-related driving offense, the DUI attorneys at Silverman Thompson have decades of experience successfully handling these cases.
If you or a loved one requires defense in a case regarding DUIs or a traffic-related matter, please contact us toll-free at 800-385-2243 for a free consultation.