Rauner signs law toughening penalties on drunk drivers

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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois will begin putting ignition locking devices on the vehicles of drivers with two or more drunken driving convictions.

The (Decatur) Herald & Review reports that the ignition interlock devices require drivers to blow into them to prove the driver is sober before the vehicle can start.

Gov. Bruce Rauner signed the measure into law last week. The new law prohibits chronic violators from operating any vehicle unless the device is installed. But it also eliminates the period of time in which the offender cannot drive, except in cases where the offender has caused great bodily harm or death.

Secretary of State Jesse White, who has targeted drunken driving during his tenure in office, said he believes the law will make roads safer.