NY state legislature debating required use of ignition interlocks on all vehicles by 2009

New technology detects alcohol on skin surface; eliminates need for breathalyzers

MADD endorses requirement for anyone convicted of 1st drunk-driving offense

Critics say 40% of drivers don't drink at all, systems not foolproof, may create distraction

Volvo, Saab in forefront of industry efforts to incorporate interlocks into cars

But think systems should be optional, not standard equipment

NY bill sponsor says complaints no different from those about mandatory safety belts use

Legislation pending in at least 12 states to require interlocks for 1st-time DWI offenders

Device maker pushing interlocks as part of teen driving laws, insurance company discounts

American Beverage Institute, some ACLU groups oppose device as too intrusive

Automakers wary of annoying consumers

Worried about parallels w/ 1973 NHTSA seat-belt interlock requirement PR disaster

"If the public wants it and the data support it, it is literally possible that the epidemic of drunk driving could be solved where cars simply could not be operated by drunk drivers. What a great day that would be." -- Chuck Hurley, CEO, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)

"We want to get on the preventive side of the cycle and not just be on the court-ordered side....We're not here to say, 'Don't drink.' We're here to say 'Don't drink and drive,'" -- George Ballance, director, sales and marketing, DraegerSafety

"For the majority of our customers, installing one of these things would have absolutely no impact. For the person who does have the problem and does install [the device], if it does inhibit him from driving impaired, that's worth way more than a lower insurance rate." -- Dick Luedke, spokesman, State Farm Insurance Company

"It [optional interlock] would give an opportunity for parents and guardians to get more involved. [But as standard equipment on all cars] to tell the American public this is going to be on your car? No way." -- Jim Champagne, chairman, Governors Highway Safety Association, former LA state police lieutenant colonel