Bill > HF3854

This bill significantly increases the penalties for criminal vehicular homicide, a crime where a person causes a death while operating a motor vehicle in a grossly negligent or negligent manner, especially while under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or other impairing substances, or if the driver flees the scene or knowingly drives a dangerously defective vehicle. Specifically, the maximum prison sentence for this offense is raised from ten to 25 years, and the maximum fine from $20,000 to $30,000. If the offense occurs within ten years of a prior qualified driving offense, the maximum prison sentence is further increased to 30 years. In addition to these harsher penalties, the bill mandates that driver education programs, whether public, private, parochial, or commercial, must provide thorough instruction on the penalties for criminal vehicular homicide. Furthermore, $100,000 is appropriated to the commissioner of public safety for fiscal year 2026 to fund programs aimed at increasing public awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence and the associated penalties for criminal vehicular homicide.

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https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/3854/