America's beer distributors applaud the Maine legislature for passing legislation that will help to prevent drunk driving in the state. Specifically, L.D. 865 will provide the Secretary of State with the ability to reinstate the license of a person convicted of more than one violation of driving under the influence only if the person installs an approved ignition interlock device and satisfies all other conditions for license reinstatement mandated by this legislation. The bill now awaits the Governor's signature.

The legislation reflects a joint statement issued by the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) and the Beer Institute (BI) on July 25, 2007, regarding MADD's "Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving." The Joint Statement can be read here.

Maine Beer and Wine Wholesalers Executive Vice President Cheryl Timberlake commended this week's passage saying, "Maine's legislature has taken a step in the right direction by sending L.D. 865 to the governor's desk. Ignition interlocks are an effective tool in combating drunk driving and working to keep our roads and citizens safe."

"NBWA believes the best approach to combat drunk driving is to support effective, state-based solutions," said NBWA President Craig Purser. "Ignition interlocks are an effective tool in combating drunk driving, and America's beer distributors continue to support the mandatory use of ignition interlocks for offenders with repeat DWI convictions and for drivers convicted of drunk driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15 or higher."

2008 marks the 75th anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition and passage of the 21st Amendment which ushered in the state-based system of alcohol regulation and facilitated the development of a system for producing, distributing and retailing alcohol that successfully continues to foster a balanced and orderly marketplace in America. Beer distributors are leaders in the effort to provide education, free cab rides, responsibility training, media campaigns, public service announcements and other programs to fight drunk driving across the country and within local communities.