The proposed legislation, known as the James Ward Act, aims to increase penalties for hit-and-run incidents involving recreational vehicles in the Commonwealth. It amends Section 26B of chapter 90B of the General Laws by modifying the punishment for individuals who leave the scene of an accident without providing their name, address, and vehicle registration. Specifically, it replaces the existing penalty for non-fatal hit-and-run incidents with a potential jail sentence of up to one year, a fine ranging from $500 to $1,000, or both.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new subsection (d) that establishes harsher penalties for hit-and-run incidents resulting in death. Under this provision, individuals who operate a snow vehicle or recreational vehicle and leave the scene after causing bodily injury that leads to death could face imprisonment for up to 2.5 years, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. The bill also includes technical amendments to the numbering of subsections within Section 26B to accommodate these changes.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 90B-26B