Criminal Justice (Probation & Parole)

Bill H 4998 increases penalties for drivers who operate a vehicle while their license is suspended or revoked and cause harm. It establishes three penalty tiers based on injury severity: up to 2.5 years in jail or $1,000 for minor injury, up to 5 years in prison or $3,000 for serious injury, and up to 10 years in prison or $5,000 for causing death. The bill mandates automatic license revocation for 60 days to 2 years after conviction (longer for severe cases) and prohibits probation or parole for serious violations. It applies specifically to drivers who were ineligible for a license or had a suspended license due to prior violations.

By Mr. Velis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1781) of John C. Velis for legislation relative to paper warrants and persons on probation. Public Safety and Homeland Security.