By Andrew Polino
North Tonawanda, NY – US Senator Chuck Schumer is pushing for legislation that would fund the development of technology to prevent drunk drivers from starting their cars. One such device would be a steering wheel that could detect the amount of alcohol in a driver's blood by touch.
Schumer says automakers would not be required to install these devices until the technology is completely perfected. He says people who drink responsibly shouldn't be worried.
"People drinking is part of people's way of life, and we all do it. You just shouldn't drink to excess," Schumer said. "What this device will be made to do is prevent you, if you drink to excess, from taking the wheel and starting the car. We're not going to put it in effect -- the legislation says it -- until we're sure that it only people who are above the legal limit.
Schumer also says that the legislation would be paid for by federal funds that are already set aside for road safety initiatives, so it would not add to the national deficit.