H.R. 2788: End Driving While Intoxicated Act of 2025

The End Driving While Intoxicated Act of 2025 aims to reduce driving while intoxicated (DWI) fatalities and incidents by implementing a national standard requiring ignition interlock devices for individuals convicted of DWI offenses. Here’s a summary of what the bill proposes:

Key Findings

The bill states several findings supporting the need for such legislation:

• There has been a significant increase in alcohol-impaired driving fatalities, resulting in a death every 39 minutes in the U.S.
• Driving while intoxicated deaths rose substantially between 2020 and 2021, with 13,384 fatalities reported.
• Studies suggest that ignition interlocks can reduce re-offending rates among DWI offenders by up to 70% while the devices are in use.
• 31 states and the District of Columbia already have laws requiring ignition interlocks for DWI offenders.
• The rise in polysubstance impairment poses additional risks on the roads, with many drivers testing positive for multiple substances.

National Standard for Ignition Interlocks

The legislation proposes several requirements:

• States must enact laws mandating ignition interlock devices for DWI offenders, which would allow them to drive only vehicles equipped with these devices for a minimum of 180 days after conviction or license suspension, with specific provisions for exceptions as determined by the state.
• If a state fails to comply, the federal government will withhold a percentage of federal highway funds:
  • 3% in fiscal year 2027
  • 5% in subsequent years
• If a state meets the requirements later, they can regain access to the withheld funds.

Terms and Definitions

The bill includes definitions for the following terms:

• Driving While Intoxicated: As defined in existing federal law.
• Ignition Interlock: A device that prevents a vehicle from starting unless the driver passes a breath test.
• Motor Vehicle: Defined as per current regulations.
• Special Exception: Conditions under which a DWI offender may drive without an ignition interlock, as determined by state law.
• Violation: Actions that would breach the terms of using the ignition interlock, such as failing a breath test or tampering with the device.

Compliance and Penalties

The bill outlines consequences for non-compliance:

• If states do not comply with the ignition interlock requirements, the withheld federal funds will lapse after a specified period.
• Funds withheld before compliance becomes available again can be apportioned back if the state meets the requirements within the authorized time frame.

Relevant Companies

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