I’m not as hep into the “Nanny State” meme as some libertarians are. I think there are times when it is appropriate for the state, as an expression of the public will, to take some decisions out of the responsibility of individuals in the state. My list of appropriate instances has narrowed over the years, but I don’t think it would have ever included this sort of thing.
Some [New Mexico] state lawmakers are convinced they have the answer to solve the D.W.I. epidemic and want to require everyone on the road to take a breathalyzer test before they can start the engine of any vehicle.
Today, the proposal is one very large step closer to becoming law.
A bill requiring an ignition interlock device be installed on every car, truck, bus or motorcycle in New Mexico passed the state house today and is on its way to the senate.
Representative Ken Martinez introduced the bill and says he was pleasantly surprised with today’s vote. “I think it’s an opportunity for N.M. to lead on this issue and be a solution state and not a problem state,” says Martinez.
You heard it: every vehicle in the state would have to have a breathalyzer on it, and you couldn’t start the vehicle without passing the test. Presumed drunk until proven sober, so to speak.
And it’s passed at least one house of the New Mexico state legislature.
Granted, alcoholism and DWI is a serious problem, in New Mexico in particular. But doesn’t seem a wee bit … condescending? Paternalistic? Insane?
Well…when I drive through New Mexico I generally assume that every driver is drunk, or very well armed and drive accordingly.
just saying…
Rather more than a wee bit….
Just a big waste of money and time, if you ask me. It would seem rather easy to by-pass any device installed on any vehicle. And by the same token, if you’ve just taken cough syrup and use the breathalyzer, alcohol will show up on the dang thing.
JM2C…
Two words: Designated Breather