What States Do Not Share DUI Information? A Comprehensive Guide

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense that has serious consequences. For instance, a DUI conviction can result in fines, license suspension, jail time, and even loss of employment. It’s because of these outcomes that every state in America takes DUI offenses very seriously. In fact, most states have made concerted efforts to share information about DUIs, specifically criminal records related to DUIs between states. This sharing of information is aimed at keeping the roads safe for everyone.

However, not all states share DUI information. In this blog article, we will cover those states that choose not to share information, thus allowing offenders to fall through the cracks.

What is the DUI Information Sharing System?

The DUI information sharing system is an initiative that was started by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2006. The initiative aimed to improve information sharing between states related to DUIs. Specifically, it developed a central database where states could upload DUI offense information which could be accessed by other participating states.

The system works by enabling states to identify drivers who have committed DUI offenses across state lines. Previously, a DUI conviction in one state might not result in any repercussions if the offender moved to another state. But now, with the DUI information sharing system, states can share information across borders, which is an effective way to keep the roads safer.

What are the states that do not share DUI information?

While many states participate in the DUI information sharing system, some states choose not to share their information. These states are as follows:

1. Georgia

Georgia does not participate in the DUI information sharing system. This means that individuals convicted of DUIs in the state will not have their records shared with other states. Although Georgia doesn’t participate in the centralized system, they do report DUI arrests and convictions to other states on a case by case basis.

2. Massachusetts

Like Georgia, Massachusetts does not participate in the DUI information sharing system. This lack of participation makes it easier for offenders to fall through the cracks, as their crimes in Massachusetts are not known outside of the state.

3. Michigan

Michigan is another state that doesn’t share DUI information. The state doesn’t participate in the centralized database system. However, Michigan does mandate that DUI convictions go on a driver’s permanent record and can be accessed by other states if they make a specific request.

4. Tennessee

Tennessee is a state that used to participate in the DUI information sharing system. However, in 2016, the state chose to stop sharing information. This means that Tennessee DUI convictions are not shared with other states, except in specific legal situations.

Why Don’t These States Share DUI Information?

States may choose not to share DUI information for several reasons. These reasons include privacy concerns, inadequate funding, or a lack of political will. However, keeping this information confidential can lead to consequences such as repeat offenders. For a successful DUI information sharing system, all states must participate to ensure that repeat offenders don’t fall through the cracks.

Conclusion

The DUI information sharing system is an essential tool for keeping drivers safe on the road. The information it shares can determine if a driver has a history of DUI offenses, which can prevent them from repeating their offenses in a new state. States that don’t participate in the system may put their residents at risk and enable repeat offenders. It is imperative that all states work together to share information and keep roads safe.