To the Editor:

As a program manager of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), I urge the Rhode Island General Assembly to pass House Bill 5638 / Senate Bill 947 (Motor and Other Vehicles – Accidents and Accident Reports), which establishes stronger penalties for driving offenses resulting in serious bodily injury or death.

It was deeply troubling to hear testimony suggesting that these penalties are "too harsh." Where is the consideration for victims and survivors? Impaired driving is not a one-time mistake; studies show that for every arrest made, there are an estimated 88 instances of drunk driving (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). This is not accidental — it is violent, reckless and 100% preventable.

Moreover, Rhode Island’s "good time" law allows offenders to be released after serving only one-third of their sentence, compounding the injustice faced by victims’ families. Real Rhode Island families are living with permanent injuries, grief and trauma, while the offenders responsible can return to their lives after minimal accountability.

Those opposing these bills should sit beside a grieving mother in court before declaring that tougher sentences are unjust. Prison reform discussions should not come at the expense of justice for victims of violent crimes.

Passing this bill is a necessary step toward real accountability and prevention.

Jennifer O’Neil

MADD RI