Senate Bill No. 1388 proposes to amend the current law regarding the "move over" law, increasing the penalty for violations that result in the death of an emergency vehicle's operator or occupant. Specifically, the bill redefines such violations as first-degree manslaughter, classifying them as circumstances that demonstrate an extreme indifference to human life. The bill replaces the existing penalty of a fine of up to $10,000 with a class B felony, which carries a potential fine of up to $15,000 and a prison sentence of up to 20 years, including a mandatory minimum of one year. The effective date for this change is set for October 1, 2025.

The bill also repeals the previous language in Section 53a-55 of the general statutes and substitutes it with new provisions that explicitly state that a violation of the "move over" law resulting in death constitutes circumstances evincing an extreme indifference to human life. This legislative change aims to enhance the accountability of drivers who fail to adhere to the "move over" law, thereby improving safety for emergency responders on the road.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
JUD Joint Favorable:
File No. 726: