Rating: –1

Bill Summary:

Senate Bill 1099 significantly increases the penalties for vehicular manslaughter, particularly for repeat DUI offenders. The bill amends multiple sections of Idaho Code to impose mandatory minimum prison sentences based on prior DUI convictions: 5 years for a second offense and 10 years for a third or subsequent offense, with maximum sentences extending up to 25 years. It also codifies that the court must inform DUI offenders that future violations resulting in death may lead to these enhanced penalties. Additionally, the bill allows courts to order child support payments from those convicted of vehicular manslaughter that results in the death of a parent.

Reason for Rating:

Although deterring DUI-related fatalities is a legitimate goal, this bill represents a significant expansion of mandatory sentencing laws and judicial authority, inconsistent with the Idaho Republican Party Platform’s stance against expanding the power and scope of government. Mandatory minimum sentences remove discretion from judges, which undermines local control and individual case evaluation. The expansion of state power to mandate child support in criminal cases also raises concerns about overreach and the growing entanglement of criminal law with family court matters. Moreover, the layering of enhanced penalties on top of existing DUI laws adds to the complexity and severity of Idaho’s criminal code rather than promoting accountability through limited, constitutionally defined government.

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