Bill > H3743

This bill, concerning increasing penalties for hit-and-run motor vehicle accidents, proposes to amend existing Massachusetts General Laws, specifically Chapter 90, Section 24, Subdivision (2), Paragraph (a ½), Subparagraph (1). The core change involves increasing the potential penalties for individuals convicted of a hit-and-run. Previously, the law stipulated a jail sentence of not less than six months nor more than two years and a fine between $500 and $1,000. The proposed amendment significantly raises these limits, allowing for a jail sentence of not less than six months nor more than two and a half years in a house of correction, or a more severe sentence of not less than two and a half years nor more than ten years in a state prison. Additionally, the fine would be substantially increased, ranging from not less than $2,500 to not more than $10,000. This change aims to deter hit-and-run offenses by imposing more severe consequences.