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Virginia Tightens Ignition Interlock Program for Drunk Drivers

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RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Virginia is making changes to its anti-drunken driving ignition interlock program.

Ignition interlock devices require drivers to blow into them to start their cars to determine whether they have had too much to drink.

Under changes Gov. Terry McAuliffe approved this week, all ignition interlocks in Virginia will have to be equipped with cameras. That means that officials will be able to see if a driver gets another person to take the breathalyzer test for him or her.

The new rules also make changes aimed at ensuring drivers don't skip blood alcohol content tests they're supposed take while operating the car.

The new regulations were developed by the Commission on Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program. The governor's office says they'll take effect when they're published in the Virginia Register.

Don Rush is the News Director and Senior Producer of News and Public Affairs at Delmarva Public Media. An award-winning journalist, Don reports major local issues of the day, from sea level rise, to urban development, to the changing demographics of Delmarva.