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Bill

A 5699

Relates to arrest, prosecution, sentencing and penalties for offenses involving vehicular assault, manslaughter and homicide and operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Fitzpatrick and 1 co-sponsor

Bill Summary: A 5699 OverviewThis bill aims to strengthen penalties and sentencing for offenses involving vehicular assault, manslaughter, homicide, and operating a vehicle under t

REFERRED TO CODES
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Bill Summary · A 5699

Bill Summary: A 5699

Overview

This bill aims to strengthen penalties and sentencing for offenses involving vehicular assault, manslaughter, homicide, and operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The bill is designed to increase accountability and consequences for these dangerous and potentially deadly driving behaviors.

Key Provisions

  • Increased Penalties: The bill would significantly increase the maximum prison sentences for vehicular assault, manslaughter, and homicide when the offense involves drugs or alcohol impairment. For example, the maximum sentence for vehicular manslaughter would be raised from 5 to 15 years.
  • Mandatory Minimums: The bill would establish mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses, such as 3 years for vehicular assault and 5 years for vehicular manslaughter involving impairment.
  • Sentencing Factors: The bill would require courts to consider aggravating factors such as high BAC levels, prior DUI convictions, and reckless driving when determining sentences.
  • Ignition Interlock: The bill would mandate the installation of ignition interlock devices for all DUI offenders, even for first-time convictions.

Impacted Parties

  • This bill would primarily impact individuals convicted of vehicular assault, manslaughter, homicide, and DUI offenses, who would face significantly harsher penalties.
  • Law enforcement and the criminal justice system would be responsible for enforcing the new sentencing guidelines and interlock device requirements.
  • Victims and their families of these types of vehicular crimes may benefit from the increased accountability and consequences.

Timeline and Procedure

  • The bill was introduced in the state legislature on May 22, 2025 and has been referred to the Codes Committee for consideration.
  • If passed, the bill's provisions would take effect 90 days after becoming law.
  • This bill is related to two prior-session bills, A 7072 and the companion bill S 1041, which addressed similar issues around vehicular crimes.

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

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