Melanie's Law: The Ignition Interlock

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - Six years ago state lawmakers passed Melanie's Law, which was designed to crack down on drunk drivers and increase the penalties for reoffending. Now Lawmakers are considering even tougher laws to keep people from reoffending.

Under the new rules, people who have received an OUI would need to have an ignition interlock device installed in their cars after their first offense. The device is linked to the car's ignition, monitors the driver's blood alcohol level, and prevents the car from starting if the driver has been drinking alcohol.

That's where 22News inFocus comes in. We'll examine these new rules and tell you what they mean for your life. You'll hear from Melanie's grandfather, who has been advocating for these changes since his 13-year old granddaughter died eight years ago. We'll also speak with a representative from MADD , and a local lawmaker who supports the bill. And we'll speak with a Criminal Defense Attorney , who claims that the ignition interlock devices will not keep drunk drivers off the road.

More information on the interlock devices can be found on the statewide and national interlock websites.