This bill proposes amendments to the Code of West Virginia, specifically targeting serious traffic offenses and crimes against the person. It renames the crime of "negligent homicide" to "vehicular homicide" and introduces a new offense called "aggravated vehicular homicide." The bill clarifies that a victim can include an embryo or fetus, and establishes specific penalties for these offenses. For instance, vehicular homicide carries a penalty of up to one year of imprisonment or a fine between $100 and $1,000, while aggravated vehicular homicide can result in a fine of up to $20,000 or imprisonment for one to five years.

Additionally, the bill outlines the definitions of "embryo" and "fetus" and emphasizes that a pregnant woman and the embryo or fetus she carries are considered separate victims in the context of certain violent crimes. It also includes exceptions to these provisions, such as acts committed during legal abortions or by medical personnel during treatment. The bill aims to enhance legal protections for unborn victims and establish clearer consequences for those who commit serious traffic offenses resulting in death.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17C-5-1, 61-2-30