The bill amends the Idaho Code to enhance penalties for manslaughter and driving under the influence (DUI) offenses, particularly targeting repeat offenders. It revises Section 18-4007 to establish differentiated penalties for vehicular manslaughter based on prior DUI violations, with maximum fines reaching $20,000 and longer mandatory prison terms for individuals with multiple prior convictions. Additionally, Section 18-8005 is updated to require that defendants are informed of the consequences of subsequent DUI offenses at sentencing, including the potential for a second or subsequent DUI offense resulting in death to be classified as vehicular manslaughter, which carries stricter penalties.

The legislation also introduces new requirements for minors convicted of DUI, extending their driving privilege suspension and mandating alcohol evaluations and treatment programs for offenders. Courts are required to order completion of treatment programs unless deemed inappropriate, and individuals with suspended or revoked driving privileges are prohibited from obtaining restricted driving privileges for commercial vehicles. The bill declares an emergency and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, ensuring that penalties are consistently enforced and offenders are held accountable.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 18-4007, 18-8005, 18-8006, 18-8004A