It is that time of year again. The time of year that once the legislature finishes their work, new laws begin to be implemented. This year is a bit of a change; while generally there is time to absorb the changes that the Legislature made before they are implemented, many new laws were passed this year the day before they went into effect.
Effective August 1, 2021 — Mandatory Interlock for Multiple Offenders: Previously, drivers arrested for their 1st or 2nd DWI in the last 10 years could wait out the revocation period if that is what they chose. However, that changes on August 1, 2021. Effective August 1, drivers who have multiple offenses will be required to complete the Ignition Interlock Program before they can be re-licensed without restriction.
Effective July 1, 2021 — Limited License for Cancelled Drivers: Until July 1, all canceled drivers had to complete their first year in the Ignition Interlock Program on a Limited License, which means they were limited to a specific set of driving hours each week. The Legislature found a way to pass this change this year. Effective on July 1, canceled drivers are no longer required to be limited in where they can drive or when they can drive.
Special Series (Whiskey) Plates: Historically, the W-Plate, or Whiskey Plate, was designed to identify drivers with DWIs. As of July 1, 2021, those drivers have a choice. They can keep the W Plate, or they can enter the Ignition Interlock Program. Once approved in the Program, the driver is eligible to get the W Plate removed from all vehicles that they own.
SR-22/Insurance Requirement: Previously, drivers entering the Ignition Interlock Program needed to obtain an insurance certificate from their auto insurer, essentially self-reporting their DWI to the insurer. However, reason has prevailed, and the SR-22 is no longer required to enter the Ignition Interlock Program, except in very limited circumstances.
Changes to the Cancelled Driver Program: Since the Statewide program began in 2011, drivers who had 3 DWIs in 10 years or 4 in a lifetime have their privileges canceled as Inimical to Public Safety (Canc-IPS). As of July 1, drivers who are Canc-IPS are no longer canceled out of the Interlock Program, and their time in the Program is now reset back to the beginning.
As always, if you have questions about your circumstances, entering the Ignition Interlock Program, or how new legislative changes affect you, call us at 952-224-7050 or email info@smartstartmn.com.
