Certain first-time impaired drivers must use interlock devices starting June 2027

Covered drivers must hold a license that requires an ignition interlock device for nine consecutive months after their license is restored. This covers first violations involving a conviction for driving under the influence, including a conviction based on alcohol level, or revocation for a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher. Drivers can finish sooner if they qualify for and receive approval for early device removal. If a referendum petition challenges this provision within 90 days after the legislature's final adjournment, it requires voter approval in November 2026. The requirement applies to license revocations on or after June 1, 2027.

Certified ignition interlock manufacturers must provide installation help, free removal after successful completion, and monthly rental discounts of up to 50% to eligible participants. The program covers eligible first-time offenders and drivers classified as persistent drunk drivers who participate in the assistance program. Applicants must be unable to pay the full device cost. They must show public assistance enrollment, income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, or eligibility under state rules based on the income they have left to spend. Standard installation is free. If the manufacturer considers the vehicle high-end or electric, only half the installation fee is covered. The state determines the monthly rental discount. Discounts do not cover charges for violations, missed appointments, lockouts, or other administrative or service fees. Drivers who fail to follow assistance rules pay the full device cost until they qualify again. Manufacturers may request updated financial information no more than once every six months to check continued eligibility. These provisions apply to revocations on or after June 1, 2027. Any provision challenged by a timely referendum petition requires voter approval in November 2026.

Drivers whose licenses were revoked for at least one year because of a refusal may apply for early restoration with an ignition interlock requirement. This covers drivers with refusal-related license revocations lasting at least one year. Drivers who were under 21 when the offense occurred must wait until their license has been revoked for one year. Permission to apply does not guarantee that the license will be restored. This provision applies to revocations on or after June 1, 2027. A timely referendum challenge would require voter approval in November 2026.

Certified device manufacturers must give all customers written assistance information. The state motor vehicle agency must prominently post eligibility rules and application instructions online. Written notices go to all ignition interlock customers, whether or not they already qualify for assistance. Manufacturers must provide the information when an installation appointment is scheduled and when the customer signs a device lease or service agreement. The law takes effect June 1, 2027. Any provision challenged by a timely referendum petition requires voter approval in November 2026.

The law sets aside $15,225 for the Colorado Department of Revenue to carry out its requirements. This money supports state implementation rather than directly paying drivers' device bills. The money comes from the Colorado DRIVES vehicle services account in the highway users tax fund. Allowed uses are $11,700 for DRIVES maintenance and support, $943 for motor vehicle staff services, $1,394 for administration staff services, and $1,188 for payments to the Office of Information Technology. The money is designated for the 2026–27 state budget year. The law takes effect June 1, 2027, with voter approval required for provisions challenged by a timely referendum petition.