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SB 40

INTERLOCK FOR DRIVING ON REVOKED LICENSE

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Moe Maestas

New Mexico bill would require breathalyzer interlocks for anyone driving with a revoked license, expanding requirements beyond DUI cases to all license revocations.

action postponed indefinitely
#crimes&penalties #motorvehicles(autos #trucks #buses #cycles)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 40

Legislative bill overview

SB 40 would require individuals whose driving licenses have been revoked to install and use an interlock device (a breathalyzer-like mechanism that prevents vehicle ignition if alcohol is detected) before they can legally operate a motor vehicle. The bill essentially extends interlock requirements beyond the typical DUI conviction context to cover all categories of license revocation.

Why is this important

License revocations occur for various reasons—not just impaired driving, but also accumulating traffic violations, failure to pay fines, or medical conditions. Mandating interlocks for all revoked drivers could significantly affect tens of thousands of people's ability to work, access essential services, and maintain employment, while potentially reducing drunk driving incidents among this population.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and fairness: Applying interlock requirements to all license revocations (including administrative ones unrelated to impairment) may be disproportionate and burden individuals whose licenses were revoked for non-safety reasons like unpaid tickets or administrative issues
  • Cost burden: Interlock devices cost $60-150+ monthly to install and maintain, creating financial hardship for low-income drivers and potentially criminalizing poverty rather than addressing public safety
  • Enforcement and effectiveness: The bill's practical enforceability is unclear—how authorities would verify compliance for driving on a revoked license, and whether it would reduce violations or simply create a new criminal offense

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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