Bill > HB267

This bill creates a new criminal offense called "aggravated vehicular homicide while under the influence" and establishes significant penalties for individuals who cause a death while driving under the influence. Specifically, the bill defines this crime as causing another person's death while operating a vehicle in violation of existing driving under the influence statutes. The penalties include mandatory imprisonment for a term of not less than 3 years or more than 30 years, and/or a fine between $10,000 and $50,000. The bill also amends several existing Montana Code sections to include references to this new criminal offense, such as updating definitions of serious crimes, modifying sentencing guidelines, and adjusting driving under the influence penalties. Importantly, the mandatory minimum imprisonment term cannot be served under home arrest and cannot be suspended unless the judge finds that imprisonment would pose a risk to the person's physical or mental well-being. The legislation appears to be named "Bobby's law" and is designed to create more serious consequences for individuals who cause fatalities while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1340