Motor Vehicle Act Amendment to Ignition Interlock Program

Proposed changes to the Motor Vehicle Act will ensure that participants of the Nova Scotia Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program will be able to continue the program, even if they move to other jurisdictions.

Similarly, new residents who must participate in an interlock program in their former jurisdiction, will be able to complete the program in Nova Scotia.

"This program continues to be an important part of government's effort to keep our roads safe and make life better for families," said Ramona Jennex, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "This amendment enhances the effectiveness of Nova Scotia's Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program and those of other regions."

The interlock program is for people who have lost their driver's licence because of an alcohol-related conviction or have an alcohol-related offence on their driving record. For many in this category, entering the program is the only way to regain driving privileges.

Participants now in the Nova Scotia interlock program who move to another province must return to complete the program. New residents must complete the interlock program in their former jurisdiction in order to obtain a driver's licence in Nova Scotia.

All provinces in Canada now have a form of the Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program. The amendment will allow Nova Scotia to enter into agreements to allow people to move between provinces and territories while maintaining ignition interlock requirements.

"Effective alcohol ignition interlock programs help prevent impaired driving and improve safety for everyone on our roads. MADD Canada is pleased to see the province pursuing measures which will increase participation and compliance with its interlock program," said Margaret Miller, president of MADD Canada.