New Montana Law Increases Penalties for Deadly DUI Crashes

A new bill has passed the Montana legislature that will increase penalties for DUI accidents that cause the death of another person. The bill is expected to receive a signature from Governor Greg Gianforte.

Dubbed "Bobby's Law" after 21-year-old Bobby Dewbre, who was killed by a drunk driver near Columbia Falls, MT in 2023, this legislation will make aggravated vehicular homicide a felony for guilty drivers with a blood alcohol level of .16 or greater.

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HB 267 was introduced by Representative Braxton Mitchell (R) of Columbia Falls and drafted by Montana House Judiciary Committee Research Director Rachel Weiss. The bill had bipartisan support.

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Bobby's Law will make the minimum penalty for aggravated vehicular homicide caused by a DUI (BAC of .16 or higher) three years in prison, with a maximum sentence of 30 years. Bobby Dewbre's family told MTN News the passing of this legislation means their son didn't die in vain.

Opinion: This law is a great step in the right direction (although the three-year minimum sentence seems a little light for taking a life while driving drunk). Most Montanans are baffled by seemingly light punishments for driving under the influence.

Perhaps they could take things a step further by increasing prison time for repeat offenders. Those whom we read about who have somehow racked up four, five, or even more DUIs should not be behind the wheel for a long time. Taking away their driver's licenses seems to be an ineffective deterrent. Perhaps lengthy jail time would help.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, resources are available.