The Legislature's Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee voted 10-0 today for a bill that would let some convicted drunken drivers get their licenses back sooner if they install a device in their vehicles that checks their sobriety. Three committee members were absent when the vote was taken.

The ignition interlock device connects a breath analyzer to a motor vehicle's ignition system and prevents a motorist from starting the car or truck if the driver's breath sample contains too much alcohol.

The proposed law would only apply to motorists with two or more drunken-driving convictions.

Under the bill, second and third offenders could reclaim their licenses more quickly if they install such a device, which they would obtain from a vendor authorized by the Secretary of State's Office.

Motorists with four or more drunken-driving convictions would have to serve their full suspension, and then use an ignition interlock device for four years after they get their licenses back.

The bill, which must be voted on by the full Legislature, also would hike the license reinstatement fee for some drivers, including drunken drivers, from $35 to $50.