Bill > H485

This bill, known as the Russell "R.J." Potter Act, proposes to increase the penalties for negligent motor vehicle operation that results in death. Specifically, it adds a new provision that punishes individuals who recklessly or negligently operate a motor vehicle in a public place, or a place accessible to the public, in a way that endangers lives or safety, and by doing so, cause the death of another person. The penalty for this offense would be imprisonment for a minimum of 2.5 years and a maximum of 20 years, with no possibility of suspension, probation, parole, or furlough until at least one year of the sentence is served, though limited temporary releases for specific urgent reasons like funerals or medical emergencies are permitted. Furthermore, any prosecution under this new provision cannot be continued without a finding or placed on file, meaning a definitive judgment must be reached.