Mothers Against Drunk Driving Hawaii applauds the Star-Advertiser’s editorial on our annual Red Ribbon campaign against drinking and driving, and for stressing Hawaii’s use of alcohol-monitoring techniques like in-car breathalyzers (ignition interlock devices) and ankle bracelets (“Fight DWI with ankle bracelets,” Star-Advertiser, Our View, Nov. 29).

We’re delighted that the breathalyzers, introduced in 2011, have recently passed a milestone. More than 100,000 attempts to drive by DUI offenders with alcohol in their system have been thwarted by ignition interlock devices. That means crashes avoided and lives saved. We also welcome the addition of ankle bracelets for the worst offenders as another promising weapon in the struggle.

Despite the help from these new technologies, Hawaii is still one of the worst states in the nation for alcohol-related fatalities. Working with law enforcement, the Legislature and the courts through the governor’s Impaired Driving Task Force, MADD will work hard to remove this stain.

Enjoy the holidays. Just don’t drink and drive.

Arkie Koehl, Carol McNamee and Kurt Kendro

Public Policy Committee of MADD Hawaii

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