Take a look at this interesting opinion piece from a blogger community who calls itself "The Discovering Alcoholic."  The writer contends that the public at large does not necessarily benefit when state legislatures pass tougher and tougher DUI laws. Specifically he contends that when laws become punitive rather than preventative, the big picture goal of taking those with a drinking problem off the street is not achieved.

For example, the Discovering Alcoholic argues that to both require a DUI offender to attend classes and therapy while at the same time taking away his driver's license may very well result in an embittered, unemployed and depressed person who might be likely to find himself arrested again. Instead, why not use current technology like ignition interlocks and transdermal perspiration monitoring bracelets with GPS monitoring to allow limited driving privileges with appropriate safeguards against drunk driving.

Do you think that the Discovering Alcoholic has a point? Will judges be persuaded by his logic?