The bill introduced on January 21, 2026, seeks to amend section 17C-5-2 of the Code of West Virginia, known as Baylea's Law, which aims to enhance penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) that results in injury or death. Key changes include increasing the minimum prison sentence for DUI causing death from three years to five years, and the maximum from 15 years to 30 years. Additionally, the minimum fine has been raised from $1,000 to $2,000, and the maximum fine from $3,000 to $6,000. The bill also establishes that individuals with prior convictions will face lifetime license revocation or a revocation period contingent on participation in a test and lock program.

For DUI causing serious bodily injury, the bill introduces a felony charge with a prison sentence ranging from two to ten years and a fine between $1,000 and $3,000. While DUI causing bodily injury remains a misdemeanor, the bill includes enhanced penalties for repeat offenders and mandates that the court clerk must promptly transmit DUI conviction orders to the Commissioner of the Division of Motor Vehicles. Overall, the legislation reflects a commitment to improving public safety by imposing stricter consequences for impaired driving offenses.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17C-5-2