BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Gov. Patrick Morrisey in Beckley on Friday signed House Bill 4712, known as “Baylea’s Law,” increasing criminal penalties for people convicted of driving under the influence resulting in death in West Virginia.
The legislation is named in honor of Baylea Craig Bower, a 25-year-old Boone County woman who was killed by an impaired driver on Easter morning in 2023.
“West Virginia will no longer allow those who drive while impaired to escape the full weight of justice,” said Governor Morrisey. “Baylea’s Law gives our legal system the teeth to demand absolute accountability for the most heartbreaking crimes. Today, our laws stand firmly on the side of victims and their families.”
Under the new law, the offense of Aggravated DUI Resulting in Death is created and carries a mandatory prison sentence of five to 30 years for individuals who operate a vehicle under the influence with a deliberate disregard for human life.
The law also prohibits those convicted from participating in home confinement or the youthful offender program.
In addition, the legislation imposes fines ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 and mandates a lifetime revocation of the offender’s driver’s license.
According to the governor’s office, the measure is part of a broader effort to improve roadway safety across the state.
The bill follows the signing of Senate Bill 692 and House Bill 4538 last month, which authorized green flashing lights for Division of Highways vehicles to improve visibility and increased penalties for speeding and distracted driving in active work zones.
Baylea’s Law will take effect June 12, 2026.
