Arizona days away from easing DUI punishment

PHOENIX - Arizona is just days away from cutting drunk drivers a big break with a new DUI law.

Currently, Arizona DUI offenders must pass a breathalyzer/ignition interlock device to start their vehicles for a full year. This new DUI law can cut the year long penalty down to six months.

The penalty decrease does not come easy, however. To qualify, it must be the first offense for DUI offenders, and they must have a record of good behavior. Offenders must also pass all of their breathalyzer/ignition tests.

Arizona has one of the toughest DUI laws in the country and is one of the few states that require offenders to use the ignition devices for a full 12 months.

Sources tell ABC15, Arizona Legislators thought our state's current DUI law was a bit too harsh, so they passed the new law to ease up on Arizona drivers.

The law, SB 1200 goes into effect on Jan. 1. It will not affect current DUI offenders, just those who are caught on and after the New Year holiday.

The law does not apply to extreme DUI offenders or those who get into accidents or other trouble as a result of their drunk driving.

DUI law experts say many offenders will still have to go through the full year, but despite that, certain groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving are not happy about the more gentle law.