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Committee approves amendment to allow naltrexone injection in some DUI cases; federal funding limits noted
Summary
Lawmakers adopted an amendment to HB 18‑14 that would allow a first‑offense controlled‑substance (non‑alcohol) DUI defendant to choose monthly naltrexone injections instead of an ignition interlock; members questioned verification and federal‑funding constraints for alcohol‑related DUIs.
The subcommittee adopted an amendment to House Bill 18‑14 that creates an option for first‑offense controlled‑substance DUI convictions (where alcohol is not involved) to be treated with monthly naltrexone injections in lieu of an ignition interlock device. Sponsor and members discussed verification (monthly proof to a probation officer) and limits imposed by federal funding rules for alcohol‑related DUIs.
"An interlock device is only effective if a person's been drinking," the sponsor said, adding that a monthly naltrexone shot "will help them resist opioids." Members asked whether the shot could be used when alcohol is involved; the sponsor replied that interlock devices remain required in alcohol‑related DUIs because federal funding restrictions would otherwise be jeopardized.
The amendment passed and HB 18‑14, as amended, was sent to full judiciary (ayes prevailed, vote recorded as 9–0). The committee flagged verification and federal‑funding impacts for follow‑up in subsequent hearings.
