Maryland has a new tool to keep drunken drivers off the roads.
Noah's Law, passed in 2016, requires ignition interlock devices to be installed in the cars of those convicted of drunk driving in Maryland. Drivers use the devices like breathalyzers. If the devices detect alcohol, they stop a vehicle from starting.
But there was a loophole that allowed thousands of drunk drivers to avoid the program every year. If they were given probation before judgment, as many are for a first DUI offense, then they weren't required to use ignition interlock devices.
This past session, Maryland lawmakers closed the loophole. Starting Oct. 1, 2024, all drivers convicted of alcohol-related offenses must get interlock devices installed in their vehicles.
Rich Leotta began advocating for the law after his son Noah died in 2015. The Montgomery County police officer was hit and killed while on patrol by a drunk driver.
“It's been a long, long journey, and it shouldn't have been," Leotta said.
“I think about Noah all the time,” Leotta said. “I know he's with me.”
Thousands of DUI offenders may be required to get ignition interlock devices, experts say
Experts predict another 5,700 will be required to get into the ignition interlock program. The exemption applied to about 50% of cases statewide.
Supporters say the program is not about punishment — it's about changing behavior.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those who have an ignition interlock device are less likely to drive drunk again in the future.
“But we still have a lot of work to do to make sure every state requires interlock devices beginning with the first offense,” said Stacey Stewart with Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
Kathleen Riley with Smart Start demonstrated how the device works. If it detects alcohol, you can't start your car.
“In the state of Maryland, we also have cameras, so it identifies who is trying to take the test,” she said.
For Leotta, the journey isn't over. He's working to get legislation passed by Congress to require interlock laws across the country.
According to Mothers Against Drunk Drivers, ignition interlocks prevented more than 76,000 drinking and driving attempts in Maryland last year.
All DUI offenders must participate in the Ignition Interlock System Program starting Tuesday, Oct. 1.
Convicted drivers will have to install the system and use it for at least 180 days.
