This bill amends Section 707.6A of the Iowa Code to establish penalties for individuals who unintentionally injure another person while operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Specifically, it introduces a new subsection that classifies such an offense as an aggravated misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to two years of confinement and a fine ranging from $855 to $8,540. Additionally, if a person commits a second or subsequent violation of this provision, it escalates to a class D felony, carrying a potential penalty of up to five years of confinement and a fine between $1,025 and $10,245.

Under current law, the penalties for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) resulting in death or serious injury are more severe, with unintentional death classified as a class B felony and serious injury as a class D felony. The bill aims to fill a gap in the law by addressing cases where injuries occur but do not meet the threshold for serious injury, thereby providing a legal framework for prosecution and penalties in these situations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 707.6A