Gov. signs DUI bill in Va. Beach

WAVY TV

Updated: Aug 7, 2012 7:16 PM

RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) — Gov. Bob McDonnell was in Virginia Beach Tuesday to ceremonially sign a new D.U.I. bill into law.

The law requires first-time D.U.I. offenders purchase and use an ignition interlock device when driving on a restricted license. Previously, only second-time or subsequent offenders required the devices.

McDonnell touted to the Beach crowd Tuesday his background as a supporter of the devices.

"When I was a delegate, I successfully advanced legislation to require ignition interlock devices when the offender's blood alcohol level was 0.15 or greater," McDonnell said. "The legislation signed today builds on that measure and requires ignition interlock devices for all drivers convicted of driving under the influence in Virginia."

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the devices reduce drunk driving recidivism by 67 percent.

Kaye Walsh's daughter was killed by a repeat offender.

"If we had had ignition interlock all those years ago, maybe she'd still be alive today," Walsh said. "There are so many more people that would still be alive today, so this means more than common words can express."

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