Passive Alcohol Sensors (PAS)

Passive Alcohol Sensors (PAS): "Passive Alcohol Sensors (PAS) Passive breath test devices are used to detect alcohol in the air around a drinking driver's mouth or in the vicinity of an open container for the purpose of enforcing alcohol-impaired driving laws. PAS are termed 'passive' because they do not require the active participation of the individual to blow into the device. Passive breath test devices are only used by police to help determine if a motorist has consumed alcohol and, consequently, if probable cause for a DWI3 arrest exists. PAS are also used in 'fitness for duty' applications for transportation vehicle operators; to test patients for sobriety in alcohol treatment facilities; to test suspected underage drinkers and for other purposes. The PAS is a good screening device, and is ideal for use at sobriety checkpoints and during regular patrols because it:

* Helps police officers identify a higher proportion of drivers who have been driving drunk than they do without sensors.
* Helps officers to quickly dismiss drivers who have not been drinking.
* Does not interfere with privacy rights and its use is Constitutional--evaluating the ambient air around the driver does not constitute a search."