CS/HB 9 - Vehicular Homicide and Wireless Device Use

• Expands the definition of vehicular homicide under Florida law to include causing death while operating a motor vehicle and using a wireless communications device in violation of s. 316.305.

• Vehicular homicide involving wireless device use is classified as a second-degree felony; if the driver knew or should have known of an accident and failed to provide aid or information, it elevates to first-degree felony.

• Updates the Criminal Punishment Code offense severity ranking chart to reflect the amended vehicular homicide statute and its penalties.

• Conforms cross-references in statutes 921.0022 and 960.03 to incorporate the new wireless device provision into vehicular homicide penalties and crime definitions.

• Effective date: October 1, 2015.