Arizona state representative celebrates signing of HB2800

PHOENIX (KYMA) - Arizona State Rep. Kevin Volk (D-District 17) joined Gov. Katie Hobbs (D-Ariz.) in celebrating the signing of House Bill (HB) 2800 Tuesday.

HB2800 is said to "strengthen Arizona's ignition interlock ("breathalyzer") laws and improve public safety."

Arizona House Democrats also said the bill is to establish new penalties for those who "knowingly lend their vehicle to someone subject to an ignition interlock requirement when it results in an accident that causes serious injury or death."

The bill effectively closes a loophole which allowed drivers under the influence to "circumvent existing safeguards."

"When you knowingly lend your vehicle to help someone avoid having to use a breathalyzer device, you are rolling the dice with the safety of our community," State Rep. Volk expressed. "Now, because of this law, you could end up with a felony as a result."

Volk introduced the bill following the death of John McLean, a former State Senate candidate for District 17, after he was killed in a crash involving a driver under the influence back in 2024.

The bill, according to Arizona House Democrats, is to honor McLean by "working to prevent similar horrific crashes and strengthen Arizona's efforts to reduce impaired driving."

"I ran this bill in honor of my friend and running mate, John McLean, to help prevent tragedies like this from happening again," said Volk. "I am grateful to the governor, to my legislative colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and to all who helped move this bill across the finish line. Today, I'm proud to stand with law enforcement and advocates to send a message that we all have a part to play in reducing impaired driving."

During the signing ceremony, Gov. Hobbs and Volk were joined by law enforcement leaders, advocates, legislators and McLean's family.

HB2800 will take effect as an Arizona law on September 12.