Senate adopts 'Sarah's Bill' to tighten bail for severe DUI crashes

The Utah Senate on the floor approved first substitute House Bill 47 — widely referred to in the chamber as “Sarah’s Bill” — changing bail procedures for drivers accused of causing severe injury or death while under the influence.

The sponsor presented the substitute as narrowly targeted to cases where a DUI results in serious bodily injury or death, saying the measure would "leave the perpetrator stays in jail until they see a judge." The sponsor told senators the substitute was crafted to avoid sweeping changes to bail for lesser offenses and to reflect agreement reached in committee between stakeholders.

Multiple senators and family members described victims’ experiences as part of the debate. Senator Escamilla recounted a family tragedy in which three children and a newborn were struck; she explained the long-term harm and frustration families feel when a suspect is released quickly. Senator Weiler said he and his family had followed Sarah’s case and supported the substitute; he signaled a possible minor technical amendment the next day.

The floor record includes a description of the crash that left the bill’s namesake, a 17-year-old, with severe injuries; the sponsor said the driver initially refused a breath test and was later found to have a blood-alcohol concentration of about 0.22. The substitute’s sponsor emphasized it was designed to allow the defendant to remain in custody until first judicial review, which could be the next business day depending on timing.

The Senate passed the bill on third reading by a voice and roll call vote recorded as 29 yeas, 0 nays, 0 absent. President Adams invited the chamber to acknowledge Sarah and her family on the floor for their participation.

The bill will be sent to the House for further consideration.