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MD HB873

MD HB873
Manslaughter by Vehicle or Vessel - Increased Penalties (Jamari's Law)


summary

Introduced
02/04/2026
In Committee
02/04/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Increasing the maximum period of imprisonment for a first conviction for manslaughter by vehicle or vessel from 10 years to 20 years and for a second or subsequent conviction, or having been previously convicted for certain other crimes, from 15 years to 30 years; etc.

AI Summary

This bill, known as Jamari's Law, increases the penalties for manslaughter by vehicle or vessel, which is defined as causing someone's death by driving or operating a vehicle or vessel in a grossly negligent manner. Specifically, for a first conviction, the maximum prison sentence is raised from 10 years to 20 years. For a second or subsequent conviction, or if the person has been previously convicted of certain other serious offenses, the maximum prison sentence is increased from 15 years to 30 years, with higher potential fines also being implemented. The bill also clarifies that convictions for similar offenses in other states or federal jurisdictions will be considered for these increased penalties. This legislation is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (3)

Last Action

House Judiciary Hearing (13:00:00 3/4/2026 ) (on 03/04/2026)

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