Panel approves bill inspired by Pasco homicide

The Senate Law and Justice Committee unanimously on Thursday approved a bill, now being called “Jason’s Law,” that could increase sentences for some vehicular homicides.

Sen. Sharon Brown, R-Kennewick, and Franklin County Prosecutor Shawn Sant developed the bill after an April 2 hit-and-run crash in Pasco took the life of Jason Smith, 36, of Kennewick. Smith’s father and brother gave emotional testimony to the committee Tuesday.

Senate Bill 6219 would make vehicular homicide while driving recklessly a more serious crime. The recommended sentencing range would be increase from 21 to 27 months to 78 to 102 months. It would be assigned the same level of seriousness as first-degree manslaughter or vehicular homicide under the influence.

“Recklessly operating a 3,000-pound vehicle should be treated just as seriously as a DUI or any other form of first-degree manslaughter,” Brown said.

Miguel Paniagua was accused of driving at speeds up to 100 mph through a residential area after police tried to stop him for a traffic infraction. His pickup truck hit Smith’s car broadside shortly after Smith had dropped off his youngest daughter at gymnastics practice.

The bill next goes to the Senate Ways and Means Committee for consideration of its potential cost.

This story was originally published January 14, 2016 at 5:03 PM with the headline "Panel approves bill inspired by Pasco homicide."