Bill > S1099

This bill amends Idaho law to revise penalties for vehicular manslaughter and enhance judicial requirements for informing defendants about potential sentencing consequences. Specifically, the bill modifies the sentencing structure for vehicular manslaughter by introducing a tiered penalty system based on prior offenses: for a first-time offender, the maximum fine remains $15,000 and maximum imprisonment at 15 years; for a second offense, the penalty increases to a potential $20,000 fine and a mandatory minimum 5-year imprisonment; and for a third or subsequent offense, the fine remains $20,000 with a mandatory minimum 10-year imprisonment. The bill also requires courts to explicitly inform defendants at sentencing that subsequent driving under the influence offenses resulting in death may be considered vehicular manslaughter and could result in increasingly severe mandatory prison terms. These changes aim to provide clearer sentencing guidelines and potentially deter repeated dangerous driving behavior. The amendments apply to various sections of Idaho's criminal and traffic codes, with the new provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Justice

Judiciary and Rules Committee (S)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/S1099/