Test site changes for Sobriety Program

The testing location is changing for the 24/7 Sobriety Program in Flathead County.

Those ordered to participate in the program, such as defendants in drunk driving cases, must appear at a testing location twice each day to prove they have not been drinking alcohol. Cost for the program is $2 per test, payable by the participant.

Compliance Monitoring Systems is taking over local testing responsibilities starting March 1. The company already oversees and handles enforcement related to self-contained remote alcohol monitoring — or SCRAM — bracelets.

In many cases, the 24/7 program is ordered as a less expensive alternative to the bracelets.

“Testing times will be from 6 to 8 a.m. and p.m., with intakes and briefing for new people to happen at 5 p.m. Monday through Friday,” company spokesman Ryan Keeler said.

The Compliance Monitoring Systems office is located in suite 207 at 37 Fifth St. E.

Statewide, the program boasted a success rate of 99.6 percent early last year.

According to Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry, testing in Kalispell originally was available at the Glacier Center for Families and Providence Community Corrections. Those locations are no longer options.

“Providence closed shop a few weeks ago and Glacier Center for Families just advised us that they were no longer able to fiscally continue with their business,” Curry said.

Curry said there will be no gap in services due to the shift and further indicated that had there been no other suitable alternative, testing would have been handled at his office.

“I believe very strongly in this program and think it has definitely helped people remain alcohol-free that would not otherwise have done so,” Curry said. “I also feel very strongly that it’s one of the best programs we have seen to prevent people from reoffending.”