Ohio to Spend $7 Million on Portable Breath Testing Devices

The state of Ohio recently announced that it would spend $7 million in federal grant money for portable breath-testing devices.  The devices are expected to help law enforcement agencies catch more drunk drivers at a quicker rate.  A bipartisan panel of legislators decided to approve the grant today.

Prior to the decision, there was skepticism surrounding the purchase of the Intoxilyzer 8000, a breath testing device.  Some claimed that bidding process was rigged and that it excluded an Ohio based company.  Additionally, defense lawyers claimed that many defendants would challenge the Intoxilyzer 8000's results, which already happened numerous times in Arizona and Florida.

However, some of the Controlling Board members said that the state health and public-safety departments could have done a better job of pleading their case for the Intoxilyzer, but that it was not sufficient reason to deny state authorities of a powerful tool that could effectively combat drunk driving. 

"We need these machines to protect the safety of the public," said state Senator Dale Miller.

The State Controlling Board voted unanimously to purchase 700 breath tests from CMI Inc. of Kentucky.   CMI Inc.'s president, Toby Hall, said "We look forward to working with Ohio law-enforcement leaders to deliver new, better alcohol-breath test equipment to help protect Ohio drivers and families from drunk drivers."

The portable breath tests are expected to be used next month during a pilot program in southwestern Ohio.  The new tests will replace stationary testing devices, which officials believe will allow police to administer tests more quickly and efficiently.

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