House passes bill to increase vehicular homicide sentences

By STEVE HUNTER
Kent Reporter Courts, government reporter
February 14, 2012 · 10:55 AM

The State House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill Monday in Olympia to increase sentences for vehicular homicide convictions.

House Bill 2216, sponsored by state Rep. Christopher Hurst, D-Enumclaw, would increase the penalty for vehicular homicide by DUI to a range of 78 to 102 months from the current range of 31 to 41 months. The new sentencing range would be the same as a sentence for first-degree manslaughter.

The legislation now goes to the Senate. Sen. David Frockt, D-Seattle, has sponsored a similar bill, according to the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office.

Legislators will hear from families who have lost loved ones to drunk drivers when the bill comes before a Senate committee.

King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg and Pierce County Prosecutor Mark Lindquist are among those in favor of the longer sentences.

Contact Kent Reporter Courts, government reporter Steve Hunter at shunter@kentreporter.com or 253-872-6600, ext. 5052.

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