COLUMBIA, SC — Starting May 19, a new South Carolina law requires all individuals convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) to install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles. This device necessitates a breath test before the car’s engine can start, ensuring the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is below 0.02 percent.

Previously, only repeat DUI offenders or first-time offenders with a particularly high BAC had to use these devices. Under the new law, any driver arrested with a BAC over the legal limit of 0.08 percent will be required to install the device, regardless of prior offenses.

Governor Henry McMaster signed the bill into law last year. According to Steven Burritt, regional executive director for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), this change is significant for public safety. “That difference is huge when it comes to protecting public safety and saving lives,” he said during a May 17 press conference.

The cost for these devices is around $130 per month. For a first-time offense, the device must remain installed for six months post-conviction; for a second offense, one year; and for a third offense, three years. Although fees can exceed $700 for a first offense and over $4,600 for a third, those unable to afford the expense may apply for state assistance, according to Mark Childress from the state’s probation and parole office.

Burritt highlighted the importance of this legislation, noting that MADD has advocated for this change for the past five years. South Carolina is now the 32nd state to enforce such a requirement for all DUI offenders.

The law’s implementation comes as South Carolina faces a significant challenge with drunk driving. The state has one of the highest rates of fatalities from drunk driving crashes in the nation. In 2022, approximately 43 percent of the state’s fatal car crashes were alcohol-related, compared to the national average of 32 percent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Despite efforts to support bars and restaurants through a lawsuit reform bill addressing the rising costs of liquor liability insurance, the bill did not pass in the Statehouse. However, the new ignition interlock device requirement aims to strengthen DUI laws and enhance public safety.

“We can tell the people in South Carolina, our DUI laws are about to get tougher,” Burritt said. “Think even harder about the decisions that you make.”

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