The bill amends Chapter 31-27 of the General Laws to introduce "Casey's Law," which establishes enhanced penalties for offenses committed as a result of road rage. It defines road rage as the operation or use of a motor vehicle, or behavior by the operator or passenger that is intentionally aggressive, harassing, threatening, intimidating, or dangerous, directed toward another motor vehicle operator or passenger on public highways or roadways.

Under this law, individuals convicted of misdemeanors related to road rage will face a mandatory fine of at least $750 and a potential suspension of their operator's license for up to one year. For felony convictions, the penalties include an additional term of imprisonment of two to fifteen years, a fine of at least $1,000, and a license suspension of up to five years or revocation for two years.

The bill also outlines procedural requirements for prosecutors to notify the court of potential enhancements due to road rage, requiring the attorney general or prosecutor to file a notice by the first pretrial conference or to allege the enhancement in the complaint, information, or indictment. Upon a plea of guilt or nolo contendere, or a verdict of guilt, the court will conduct a sentencing hearing to determine if the defendant's actions were motivated by road rage. If determined beyond a reasonable doubt, the defendant will be sentenced according to the enhanced penalties.

Additionally, the bill establishes a restricted receipt account known as the "Road Rage and Safe Driving Education Fund," into which all fines collected under this section will be deposited. Monies from this fund will be used to raise public awareness about the serious consequences of road rage and to encourage safer driving behavior. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
8384: 35-4-27