Ward introduces 'Joey's Law' to monitor convicted drunken drivers

ST. PAUL - State Rep. John Ward introduced legislation Tuesday designed to strengthen how drivers who have been convicted of driving under the influence are monitored.

"Joey's Law," named in honor of Joey Jordan, a Pequot Lakes high school student who was killed in 2005 by a drunken driver, would create a pilot project in Crow Wing County that would judge the success of monitoring volunteer DUI offenders through ignition interlock devices, secure continuous remote alcohol monitor, a portable breath test device or other methods approved by the public safety commissioner.

If enacted, the commissioner would be required to submit two annual reports (2012 and 2013) to the Legislature that evaluate the successes and failures of the pilot project, provide information on recidivism rates and make recommendations on continuing the project.

"The family of Joey Jordan will never get over the tragedy of losing their son," said Ward. "While Joey can never be brought back, we can honor his death by passing this law that could help prevent similar tragedies in the future."

The costs associated with this enhanced monitoring will be paid by the DUI offender, according to Ward. It is expected some may choose this path instead of the typical home monitoring or complete loss of driving privileges.

The bill was passed in committee with bipartisan support and was referred to the Public Safety Finance Division.