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SB 285

DUI CAUSING 1 DEATH-4-20 YRS

104th Regular Session Introduced by Steve McClure

Illinois bill establishes 4-20 year prison sentences for DUI drivers who cause one death, setting mandatory sentencing guidelines for fatal impaired driving cases.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Bill Summary · SB 285

Legislative bill overview

SB 285 establishes a sentencing range of 4-20 years imprisonment for DUI offenses resulting in one death in Illinois. The bill modifies existing penalties for alcohol or drug-impaired driving that causes a fatality, creating a defined mandatory minimum and maximum sentence for judges to apply.

Why is this important

DUI fatalities represent a significant public safety concern, and sentencing guidelines directly affect deterrence, victim family closure, and accountability for impaired drivers. Clear statutory sentencing ranges provide consistency in how courts handle these serious cases across different jurisdictions within the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Sentencing severity vs. rehabilitation: Questions about whether 4-20 years appropriately balances punishment with rehabilitation opportunities, and whether it aligns with sentences for comparable negligent homicide offenses
  • Judicial discretion: The range allows flexibility, but some may argue for mandatory minimums while others contend judges need broader discretion to account for individual circumstances
  • Disparity with other offenses: Comparison to existing penalties for reckless homicide and involuntary manslaughter, and whether this creates sentencing consistency or duplication across statutes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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