Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Neilson bill to streamline the ignition interlock program heads to Gov. Shapiro

Neilson bill to streamline the ignition interlock program heads to Gov. Shapiro

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    July 13, 2026 | 1:25 PM

Legislation (House Bill 1862) driven forward by state Rep. Ed Neilson, chair of the PA House Transportation Committee, to streamline and reform administrative procedures related to the ignition interlock program, passed the General Assembly Sunday and is headed to Gov. Josh Shapiro for his signature.

An ignition interlock is a breathalyzer used for certain DUI offenses; it is installed in a vehicle to prevent it from starting or running if the driver’s alcohol level exceeds certain limits.

Because of lengthy processing times and administrative delays, many drivers wait months to receive approval for an ignition interlock license. As a result, ignition interlock devices often remain installed well beyond the court-ordered period, costing drivers hundreds of dollars in unnecessary fees and, in some cases, limiting employment opportunities.

“Driving under the influence is a serious offense. It can alter lives forever, and offenders should absolutely be held accountable for their reckless decision. However, the program’s goal is to deter future offenses and promote rehabilitation. Once a person has served their time, it shouldn’t be a complicated, time-consuming process to remove the ignition interlock device,” Neilson said.

The bill makes the following adjustments to the program:

  • Creates a single, comprehensive Ignition Interlock Driver’s License.
     ? Currently, PennDOT issues two different interlock licenses, which causes confusion.
  • Adds additional opportunities for applications to be submitted rather than just certified mail, such as online or at a select driver’s license center.
  • Requires PennDOT to issue the camera card or interlock license within 14 days of receiving the application and all other requirements.
     ? Currently, it can take PennDOT months to issue an interlock license.
  • Requires PennDOT to credit an individual toward their interlock requirement for any amount of time that the person holds a valid interlock license.
     ? Currently, people can lose out on earning credit for various reasons.
  • Requires PennDOT to establish an online portal within about three years to provide multiple customer service options online related to ignition interlock.
  • Allows all offenders to be immediately eligible for the Ignition Interlock Driver’s License.
     ? Currently, certain offenders must wait several months before they are eligible, which causes more delays.
  • Requires ignition interlock vendors to follow new procedures to verify a person’s eligibility before installing the device or face penalties.

“This was a bipartisan effort that took almost four years to negotiate,” Neilson said. “I want to thank Rep. Kerry Benninghoff, Sen. Judy Ward, Sen. Marty Flynn, Secretary Mike Carroll and all of the staff who worked to get this to the finish line.”

The House and Senate Transportation committees held a joint public hearing on the issue on May 7, 2025, which is viewable here.

House Bill 1862 now awaits the governor’s signature to become law after being approved by the House 202-0 and the Senate 45-5 on Sunday.