Penalties increase for criminal vehicular homicide

This bill increases penalties for criminal vehicular homicide in Minnesota, raising the maximum prison sentence from 25 to 30 years and the fine from $20,000 to $30,000 for repeat offenders convicted within 10 years of a prior driving offense. It requires all driver education programs to include instruction on these penalties and allocates $100,000 for public awareness campaigns about DUI dangers and related penalties. The changes apply to offenses committed on or after August 1, 2026. The bill directly affects drivers convicted of causing death through reckless or impaired driving, particularly those with prior violations.